Vanecia Smith
Chicago
Summary
Seasoned Safety & Security Professional with over 10 years of experience in security operations and emergency response coordination. Led investigations and prepared comprehensive reports while ensuring safety for guests and associates. Served as Lead Officer on Duty, recognized for sound judgment and effective conflict resolution.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Safety & Security Officer / Lead Officer on Duty
Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago
Chicago
01.2024 - Current
- Led security operations as Officer on Duty in supervisor's absence, directing team actions and supporting decision-making processes.
- Protect guests, associates, vendors, and hotel assets while maintaining Marriott standards of hospitality and professionalism.
- Conduct routine patrols of guest floors, meeting spaces, restaurants, lounges, employee areas, and exterior property grounds.
- Investigate guest complaints, accidents, disturbances, policy violations, and security incidents.
- Prepared detailed incident reports for management review, ensuring thorough documentation for accountability.
- Coordinate responses involving emergency medical services, fire department personnel, law enforcement, hotel leadership, and outside vendors.
- Monitor surveillance systems, alarm systems, access control systems, and life safety equipment.
- Assist with guest service recovery situations and de-escalate challenging interactions.
- Train newly hired officers on department procedures, reporting standards, safety practices, and guest interaction expectations.
Hospital Security Officer
United American Security
Houston
01.2016 - 01.2024
- Maintained a safe and secure environment for patients, visitors, and medical personnel.
- Responded to emergency situations, behavioral incidents, and security threats.
- Assisted medical staff with combative, confused, or emotionally distressed patients.
- Conducted interior and exterior patrols.
- Investigated incidents and documented findings through detailed reporting.
- Controlled access to restricted areas and monitored visitor activity.
- Demonstrated strong conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques.
Forklift Operator
Coca-Cola Refreshments
Chicago
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Operated industrial power equipment safely and efficiently.
- Managed inventory movement and warehouse operations.
- Maintained safety compliance standards.
- Assisted with shipping, receiving, stocking, and replenishment activities.
Security Officer
American Heritage
Chicago
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Controlled building access and verified identification credentials.
- Monitored residential property security operations to ensure safety and compliance with policies.
- Maintained accurate records and prepared reports to track incidents and enhance security measures.
- Directed traffic flow and visitor activity.
- Delivered excellent customer service to residents and visitors, fostering a welcoming and secure environment.
Education
High School Diploma -
Prologue High School
Chicago, IllinoisSome College (No Degree) - Business Administration Coursework
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago, IllinoisSkills
- Security Operations Management
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Crisis Management
- Incident Investigations
- Facility Security Management
- Access Control Systems
- Surveillance Monitoring
- Safety compliance
- Emergency Response Training
- First Aid & CPR Certified
- Team Leadership & Mentoring
- Training development
- Report writing
- Safety Communication
- Microsoft Office Suite
Certification
- Security Supervisor Certificate, 2026
- CPR Certified
- First Aid Certified
- Level III Commissioned Security License
- Forklift Certification
Awards Recognition
- Employee of the Month, 01/01/25
- Employee of the Month, 03/01/25
- Recognized for leadership, professionalism, and operational excellence.
Leadership Highlights
- Frequently selected as Lead Officer on Duty when supervisors are unavailable.
- Trusted to make operational decisions during overnight shifts.
- Recognized for strong incident documentation and investigative skills.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple departments during emergencies and critical incidents.
- Consistently maintains professionalism while handling high-pressure situations.
- Strong reputation for guest service, teamwork, and accountability.
Cover Letter
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Security Supervisor position with Marriott International at The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago.
Throughout my security career, I have demonstrated a commitment to safety, leadership, guest service, and operational excellence. In my current role as a Safety & Security Officer, I am frequently entrusted to serve as Lead Officer on Duty whenever supervisory personnel are unavailable. This responsibility has allowed me to develop strong leadership, decision-making, and team coordination skills while maintaining Marriott’s high standards of service.
My experience includes conducting investigations, responding to emergencies, preparing detailed incident reports, coordinating with first responders, and supporting hotel operations across multiple departments. I have built strong working relationships with management, engineering, housekeeping, front office, and food and beverage teams to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for both guests and associates.
I am confident that my leadership experience, hospitality security background, and dedication to guest service would allow me to make an immediate positive impact as a Security Supervisor.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to discussing how my experience and commitment to excellence can contribute to the continued success of The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago.
Sincerely,
Vanecia Smith
Timeline
Safety & Security Officer / Lead Officer on Duty
Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago
01.2024 - Current
Hospital Security Officer
United American Security
01.2016 - 01.2024
Forklift Operator
Coca-Cola Refreshments
01.2015 - 01.2016
Security Officer
American Heritage
01.2014 - 01.2015
High School Diploma -
Prologue High School
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration Coursework
Northeastern Illinois University