“As a premier security services provider, DSS has the complete resources to deliver the highest levels of service in the most demanding urban environments in the world.”
As part of the recent DSS reorganization, Vanessa Vanegas was promoted to Area Vice President of Operations for New York City. In this expanded role, Vanessa will extend her oversight to Long Island, supporting the team led by District Manager Helena Montenegro. All district-level team members across New York State now report directly to Vanessa. She is supported by Brian Gilbert, Area Vice President of Client Services in New York City, and will report directly to Yftah Kaluski, Vice President of Operational Efficiency.
During her tenure in New York City, the region led DSS in growth through the addition of many clients and management team members. Vanessa’s leadership has been instrumental in mentoring team members, managing complex growth transitions, driving operational efficiency, and improving profitability.
As part of her expanded responsibilities, Vanessa will work alongside Gerardo Molina, Strategic Support Manager, under the direction of Yftah Kaluski to drive efficiencies across the Global Security Operations Center (GSOC) operation. A key 2026 initiative will be enhancing the GSOC’s ability to better support clients, employees, and branch management teams.
Vanessa provides strategic direction and progressive leadership, now overseeing all operations throughout New York. She oversees all district operations and provides strategic leadership to ensure operational effectiveness, efficiency, and ethical standards. All district operations personnel report directly to her. A dedicated and highly focused leader, Vanessa drives financial growth, maintains team cohesion, and prioritizes continuous operational improvement and client success.
Vanessa has almost 20 years of aviation security (AVSEC) industry experience. She began her career at Terminal One at JFK International Airport in New York as a Security Officer and Traffic Agent. Vanessa quickly rose to the position of Supervisor. She then spent 15 years as an Operations Manager for a leading aviation security provider at the Airport.
Before joining DSS, she was General Manager of the Aviation Division at a major security services provider at JFK, serving several major airlines and terminals. In this role, she directed scores of aviation services and security personnel, prepared financial reports, oversaw the company’s office operations, and developed strategies to enhance client service and reduce costs.
Her expertise spans security personnel management, financial reporting, operational oversight, cost reduction strategies, and service enhancement. At DSS, Vanessa ensures the highest levels of professionalism and customer responsiveness, as well as strict compliance with all relevant regulations and directives for our clients. She communicates directly with DSS’ Executive Leadership Team, resulting in streamlined decision-making and effective service outcomes.
Vanessa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Queensborough College and remains committed to professional excellence and leadership in the security industry
