CSD® – Certified Security Director
The Executive Standard for Enterprise Security Leadership
Recognizes executive-level authority in enterprise security governance, strategy, and organizational accountability.
What the CSD® Certification Validates
Leadership-level leadership and enterprise-wide security governance.
The Certified Security Director (CSD®) certification validates advanced strategic leadership capability and executive accountability for security functions across an entire organization. It is the capstone credential in the CorpSecurity certification pathway, reserved for seasoned professionals responsible for shaping enterprise security strategy, governance, and organizational alignment with business objectives.
CSD® confirms that a certified professional has the mastery to lead the security function at the highest levels, including direct interaction with boards, C-suite executives, and enterprise risk frameworks. It goes well beyond operational duties, emphasizing strategic oversight, governance, and alignment of security programs with organizational mission and continuity priorities.
This certification is not an intermediate or management-level credential; it is designed for senior security leaders who already have deep management experience and now operate at the Leadership decision-making level.
Your Pathway to CSD® Certification
Understand the scope, structure, and recognition of the Certified Security Manager credential
Define the Strategy. Govern the Enterprise.
The Certified Security Director (CSD®) is the definitive, capstone validation for professionals who command the Chief Security Officer (CSO) or Director of Global Security function. It is reserved for senior leaders who transition from managing security programs to defining the enterprise risk strategy and governance architecture.
This credential is proof that you possess the mastery to align the security function directly with strategic business objectives, ensuring the protection of capital, reputation, and continuity at the highest Executive Leadership level.
- Pinnacle of Validation: Attain the highest-tier credential recognized for board reporting, Executive Leadership interaction, and enterprise-wide risk governance.
- Strategy First: Focus exclusively on Security Leadership Strategy and the Development of the 9 core enterprise security programs.
- Leadership Development: The curriculum emphasizes strategic workforce analytics, global talent management, and executive succession planning—the hallmark of a true CSO.
- Mandatory Path: This is the capstone achievement, requiring prior CSM® certification to ensure a proven pathway of progressive management expertise.
Ready to assume the highest role in corporate security and master Executive Leadership? Attain your mandate.
Master the 9 Pillars of Executive Leadership & Governance.
The CSD® exam is built on an Advanced Body of Knowledge (CBK) organized into nine critical, high-impact domains. The weighting is strictly structured to allocate 50% to Core Leadership and 50% to Strategic Program Development and Governance.
| Domains | Weight (%) |
|---|---|
| Domain 1: Security Leadership Strategy | 20% |
| Domain 2: Security Operations Excellence | 15% |
| Domain 3: Security Personnel Development | 15% |
| Domain 4: GSOC – Global Security Operations Center Development | 10% |
| Domain 5: Crisis Management Program Development | 9% |
| Domain 6: Information Security Program Development | 8% |
| Domain 7: Personnel Security Program Development | 8% |
| Domain 8: Physical Security Program Development | 8% |
| Domain 9: Investigation Program Development | 7% |
CSD® – Certified Security Director
Executive Leadership Level
| Pathway | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Standard | Minimum 15 years of senior security experience, with executive-level responsibility (strategic, corporate-wide, multi-country, regional, or enterprise scope) |
| Fast-Track | Minimum 12 years of senior security experience, with executive-level responsibility, and active CSM® |
Notes (CSD):
- Executive responsibility is evaluated by organizational scope and strategic authority, not designation alone
- CSA®, CSS®, or CSI® do not provide fast-track eligibility
Rules of Ascent
CSA → CSM → CSD
(Professional → Management → Executive Leadership)
Executive Mentorship & Strategy Focus
Our official training program is designed to bridge the gap from security manager to Executive Leader, emphasizing governance frameworks, C-suite communication, and enterprise strategy over basic technical knowledge. This program is optimized for the demanding schedule of a senior professional.
| Training Element | Detail (Leadership Focus) |
|---|---|
| Training Format | 100% Online, Self-Paced Access. Designed for the Executive Leadership schedule, offering 24/7 access to the Learning Portal, Dedicated Learner Support, and Expert Mentor guidance. |
| Access Validity | 36 Months (3 Years). Provides sustained access reflecting the long-term strategic nature of the CSD® credential. |
| Key Resources | Executive Mentorship Modules, Scenario-Based Case Studies, C-Suite Reporting Templates, and Advanced Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Frameworks. |
| Course Duration | Approximately 6 to 9 months (flexible, based on your professional schedule). |
The CSD® Exam Structure
| Exam Element | Specification |
|---|---|
| Time Limit | 4 hours |
| Questions | 225 Multiple-Choice Questions |
| Delivery | Online / Secure Remote Proctored |
| Mandatory Prerequisite | Prior CSM® certification is required to schedule the CSD® examination. |
| Pass percentage |
A minimum score of 80% on the final examination is required to successfully pass the CSD assessment. |
Prepare and submit Project work via reports and presentations to demonstrate the candidate’s mastery of Certification Job Practice Domains.
Earning and Maintaining Your CSD$^{\circledR}$ Credential
The CSD® requires the highest level of professional commitment. Post-exam, you must submit your final application, pay the Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF), and adhere to the rigorous Continuing Professional Education (CPE) policy.
Step 1: The Final Application & AMF (Post-Exam Verification)
| Detail | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Application Submission | Submit proof of required work experience (10 years total), prior CSM$^{\circledR}$ certification, and the signed Code of Conduct. |
| Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) | Payment of the first AMF ($99 USD) is required to finalize the certification. This is a single annual fee that covers all your CorpSecurity International certifications. |
| Award | Once approved by the Certification Board and the AMF is paid, you are officially awarded the Certified Security Director (CSD®) designation. |
Step 2: Recertification and CPEs
To ensure your Executive Leadership skills remain current with the evolving global threat landscape, you must adhere to the CSD® CPE program.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recertification Cycle | 3 years |
| Total CPE Required | 90 CPE credits total over the 3-year cycle. |
| Annual Requirement | Pay the Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) and earn/report a minimum of 30 CPE credits annually. |
| Recertification | The final recertification application (and validation of all 90 CPEs) must be submitted once every 3 years to renew the Executive Leadership credential. |
The CSD® Exam – Domain Coverage
The Certified Security Director (CSD®) exam assesses professional responsibility across the following management domains:
Domain 1: Security Leadership Strategy
1: The Job Role of Security Director or Chief Security Officer
- Understanding the responsibilities and challenges of a security director
- The evolving role of security in today’s business environment
- Building effective relationships with stakeholders
2: Security Leadership Strategy: Know Your Business, Industry, Client, and Threat Surface
- Conducting thorough business and industry analysis
- Identifying and understanding client risks and requirements
- Developing a comprehensive threat assessment
3: Focusing on the Business and Execution Assurance
- Aligning security strategy with business objectives
- Establishing clear performance metrics and reporting mechanisms
- Ensuring effective execution and accountability
4: Security Risk Assessment and Leadership
- Conducting quantitative and qualitative risk assessments
- Prioritizing risks and developing mitigation plans
- Implementing risk management frameworks and controls
5: Program Development Strategy
- Identifying and prioritizing security initiatives
- Developing comprehensive security programs
- Managing program implementation and continuous improvement
6: Collaboration and Communication
- Building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Communicating effectively with the board, senior management, and law enforcement
- Facilitating cross-functional collaboration for security initiatives
Domain 2:Security Personnel Development
Module 1: Strategic Security Personnel Development Planning
- Strategize recruitment and selection strategies to attract top talent.
- Develop succession planning programs to ensure continuity of skilled personnel.
- Improve workforce analytics to optimize staffing levels and competencies.
Module 2: Security Personnel Development Programs
- Strategize training and development programs tailored to specific job roles and career paths.
- Develop mentoring and coaching programs to accelerate skill acquisition.
- Improve evaluation and assessment methods to measure training effectiveness.
Module 3: Performance Management
- Strategize performance evaluation systems that align with organizational goals.
- Develop robust feedback mechanisms to support continuous improvement.
- Improve performance improvement plans to guide underperforming employees towards success.
Module 4: Motivation and Engagement
- Strategize employee motivation and retention strategies to enhance job satisfaction.
- Develop recognition and reward programs to foster loyalty and high performance.
- Improve communication channels to create a positive and engaged work environment.
Module 5: Leadership Development
- Strategize leadership development programs to identify and nurture future leaders.
- Develop training and coaching initiatives to enhance management skills and strategic thinking.
- Improve organizational culture to promote leadership growth and succession.
Domain 3:Security Operations Excellence
Module 1: Stakeholder Management
- Strategize effective stakeholder engagement and communication plans
- Develop strategies for aligning security objectives with business goals
- Improve stakeholder buy-in and support for security initiatives
Module 2: Executive Leadership Assurance
- Strategize executive-level reporting and briefings for security matters
- Develop methods to demonstrate the value and impact of security operations
- Improve communication and transparency with senior leadership
Module 3: Project Management
- Strategize project planning, execution, and monitoring for security initiatives
- Develop resource allocation and risk management strategies
- Improve project delivery success rates and minimize disruptions
Module 4: Budget Management
- Strategize budget planning, forecasting, and cost optimization
- Develop strategies for securing funding and maximizing return on investment
- Improve financial accountability and transparency within the security function
Module 5: Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
- Strategize GRC frameworks for security operations
- Develop policies, procedures, and controls to mitigate risks and ensure compliance
- Improve alignment with industry regulations and best practices
Module 6: Continuous Improvement
- Strategize performance monitoring and evaluation mechanisms
- Develop strategies for identifying and addressing security gaps
- Improve operational efficiency and effectiveness through continuous improvement initiatives
Domain 4:Physical Security Program Development
Module 1: Physical Security Assessment
- Strategizing for effective physical security assessments
- Conducting comprehensive physical security assessments
- Utilizing diverse assessment techniques
Module 2: Physical Security Strategies and Design Principles
- Identifying and mitigating security risks
- Implementing physical security measures to achieve desired outcomes
- Aligning security design with corporate risk management goals
Module 3: Physical Security Measures
- Optimizing security personnel management
- Leveraging electronic security systems (VSS, ACS, IDS)
- Exploring emerging technologies (Video Analytics & AI)
- Establishing robust physical security procedures
- Applying CPTED and other structural measures
Module 4: Physical Security Systems
- Designing and selecting appropriate security systems
- Understanding system elements and their functions
- Managing physical security projects effectively
Module 5: Physical Security Program Management
- Developing and implementing comprehensive physical security programs
- Aligning physical security programs with organizational goals
- Monitoring and evaluating program effectiveness
- Continuously improving and refining physical security initiatives
Domain 5: Investigation Program Development
1: Principles of Security Investigation
- Foundations of investigations: concepts, principles, and legal considerations
- Ethics and professional conduct in investigations
- Investigative frameworks and methodologies
2: Methods of Security Investigation
- Surveillance and undercover operations: techniques and best practices
- Interviewing techniques: obtaining reliable information
- Evidence collection and preservation: securing and handling evidence
3: Case Management
- Case documentation and record-keeping systems
- Investigative planning and management
- Case assessment and prioritization
4: Applying Investigative Strategies
- Investigating workplace misconduct: theft, fraud, and harassment
- Cybercrime investigations: identifying and mitigating threats
- Crisis management and emergency response investigations
5: Specialized Investigative Techniques
- Forensic analysis: tools and techniques for evidence examination
- Crime scene investigation: protocols and procedures
- Financial investigations: tracing assets and uncovering financial crimes
6: Program Development
- Assessing organizational security investigations needs and risks
- Designing and implementing an investigation program
- Training and certification for investigators
Domain 6: Personnel Security Program
1: Workplace Violence Prevention and Response
- Identifying and assessing workplace violence risk factors
- Developing a comprehensive workplace violence prevention plan
- Training and education programs for employees and managers
2: Executive Protection
- Conducting threat assessments and developing security plans
- Establishing and maintaining secure environments
- Coordination with law enforcement and emergency services
3: Travel Security
- Risk assessment and planning for international and domestic travel
- Incident response and recovery procedures
- Communication and coordination with local authorities
4: Security of Special Events
- Planning and coordinating security measures for large-scale events
- Crowd management and access control
- Collaboration with external stakeholders
5: Background Investigations and Screening
- Understanding the legal and regulatory framework
- Conducting thorough background investigations
- Ensuring accuracy and confidentiality in screening processes
6: Insider Threats and Mitigation
- Identifying potential insider threats
- Implementing security controls to reduce risks
- Establishing reporting mechanisms and response protocols
Domain 7: Crisis Management Program
1: Introduction to Crisis Management
- Defining crisis management and its significance
- Identifying types of crises and their potential impacts
- Establishing a crisis management framework
2: Crisis Planning and Preparedness
- Developing a comprehensive crisis management plan
- Identifying and assessing risks
- Establishing early warning systems and communication protocols
3: Crisis Response
- Activating the crisis management plan
- Establishing an incident command system
- Communicating with stakeholders and the public
4: Crisis Mitigation and Recovery
- Implementing strategies to mitigate crisis impacts
- Restoring operations and rebuilding reputation
- Conducting post-crisis evaluations and lessons learned
5: Crisis Leadership and Communication
- Developing crisis leadership skills
- Establishing effective communication channels
- Managing media and social media during a crisis
6: Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Understanding legal responsibilities in crisis management
- Ensuring compliance with regulations and ethical standards
- Protecting the organization from liability
Domain 8: Information Security Program
1: Information Security Overview
- Introduction to information security concepts and principles
- Understanding the threats and vulnerabilities facing organizations
- Developing and implementing an information security program
2: Cybersecurity Overview
- The basics of cybersecurity and its role in information security
- Common cybersecurity threats and risks
- Strategies for protecting against cyberattacks
3: Significance of Information Systems Security
- The importance of protecting information systems for business operations
- Legal and regulatory compliance requirements for information security
- The impact of information security breaches on organizations
4: Protection of Information Assets
- Identifying and classifying different types of information assets
- Implementing security measures to protect information assets from unauthorized access, modification, and destruction
- Managing risks associated with information asset loss or compromise
5: Converged Security
- The convergence of physical and cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities
- Integrated security solutions to address converged threats
- Best practices for implementing and managing converged security systems
Domain 9:GSOC – Global Security Operations Center
1: Introduction to GSOC
- Overview of GSOC (Global Security Operations Center)
- Benefits and challenges of implementing a GSOC
- Key components and functions of a GSOC
2: Strategic Planning for GSOC
- Developing a GSOC strategic plan
- Aligning GSOC with overall security strategy
- Establishing performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs)
3: GSOC Design and Implementation
- Physical infrastructure and equipment requirements
- Staffing and training considerations
- Security technology integration and automation
4: GSOC Operations and Management
- Incident response and management processes
- Threat intelligence gathering and analysis
- Communication and collaboration with stakeholders
5: Continuous Improvement and Evaluation
- Monitoring and evaluating GSOC performance
- Identifying areas for improvement and optimization
- Best practices and industry trends in GSOC management
Official CSD® Certificate
A globally recognized credential validating security management responsibility
Why Top Professionals Choose CorpSecurity
A globally trusted certification authority for corporate & physical security.
Globally Recognized Certification Authority
CorpSecurity International establishes internationally consistent, role-aligned certification standards trusted by security professionals and employers across regions and industries.
Structured Professional Ascent Framework
A clearly defined certification pathway — Professional → Specialist → Management → Executive — aligned with real-world career progression and experience milestones.
Practitioner-Governed Standards
All certifications are designed, reviewed, and governed by experienced security practitioners, ensuring relevance to real corporate security responsibilities — not academic theory.
CorpSecurity Global Professional Network
Certified professionals gain access to a global professional network supporting peer recognition, leadership engagement, and continuous professional development.
Global Security Insights
Members receive curated CorpSecurity Global Security Insights — practitioner-led intelligence, trends, and analysis for modern security professionals and decision-makers
Independent Governance & Proven Trust
CorpSecurity operates under independent certification governance, supported by sustained global adoption and verified professional trust.
CSD® Certified Professionals
A selection of professionals holding the CorpSecurity CSD® certification.
Kariyapatil Paul Varghese, CSD®
Security Director,
India
Oluwakayode Adeoye, CSD®
Security and Safety Advisor
Nigeria

