Can you place executives who already hold a security clearance?

Yes. We have profiles with existing clearances issued by the Danish Defence Intelligence Service. If you need an executive who can begin immediately in a classified environment, that is the first thing we clarify when we speak.

What if you do not have the right profile?

We say so directly. We do not place a profile that does not fit — whether that is a question of competence or security requirements. It is better for you and for us.

How quickly can you deliver an interim leader for a defence assignment?

We can present relevant profiles within 48 hours. Lead time depends on the nature of the assignment and any clearance requirements — but we begin the process from the first conversation.

Do you only work with public defence organisations?

No. We also work with private companies supplying technology, consultancy or services to the defence sector — companies operating under the same security requirements as the public organisations they serve.

What does an interim leader cost in this sector?

It depends on the role, the executive's background and the duration of the assignment. We have outlined the factors that affect fees on our page on what interim management costs: https://panum.eu/en/insights/what-does-interim-management-cost/

Security Clearances in the Defence Sector │ Panum

A security clearance is not an administrative formality. It is a prerequisite for working with classified projects, critical infrastructure and international defence programmes — and in Denmark, the Danish Defence Intelligence Service decides who receives one.

In brief

Security clearances in Denmark are issued by the Military Security Service at the Danish Defence Intelligence Service (FE)
The assessment is based on the individual’s reliability and character — not only a background check
Private companies working for the Danish Armed Forces, NATO or the EU must also obtain a company-level security authorisation
We have profiles with existing clearances and know the process for those who need to obtain one

What a security clearance is

A security clearance is an official assessment of whether a person can be entrusted with classified information. In Denmark, clearances are issued by the Military Security Service at the Danish Defence Intelligence Service (FE).

The assessment is concrete and individual. FE places particular weight on whether the person’s behaviour and character leave no doubt about their reliability in relation to classified material. The conduct of a spouse or partner may also be taken into account.

The basis for the decision is partly information the person provides themselves via a declaration form, and partly information FE obtains independently. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) carries out a register check — and for the highest classification levels, a more thorough personal investigation involving previous employers and others who know the individual.

Classification levels and duration

Clearances are granted at different levels depending on the sensitivity of the information the person will access. The higher the classification, the more extensive the assessment process.

Depending on the length of the project, clearances are normally issued for two or five years, with extensions granted as needed. This means clearance planning should begin early — not once the executive has already been selected.

Company-level authorisation — what it requires

A private company must obtain a security authorisation before it can carry out work for the Danish Armed Forces, NATO or the EU, if that work involves access to classified information. FE issues the authorisation following a recommendation from the defence authorities or the Confederation of Danish Industry (DI) — companies cannot apply directly.

The authorisation covers four areas: personnel security, physical security, document security and IT security. FE provides companies with security training and conducts supervisory visits.

The legal basis is the Danish Security Circular and the Defence Command’s regulations (FKOBST 358-1). For international assignments, the Multinational Industrial Security Working Group (MISWG) framework also applies.

What this means for interim leadership

When an organisation needs an interim leader for an assignment requiring clearance, there are two scenarios: the executive already holds the necessary clearance, or the process must be completed before the assignment can begin.

We clarify this from the first conversation. We have profiles with existing FE clearances who can start quickly. We also have profiles without existing clearances who are strong candidates for the process — and we know what it requires of both the individual and the organisation.

The key point is that security clearance should not be treated as an afterthought. It is part of the assignment design from the start.

“We treat security clearance as part of the match — not as an administrative detail to be resolved afterwards.”

International cooperation and cross-recognition

Many defence projects operate within international frameworks — NATO, the EU or bilateral programmes. This means clearances often need to be recognised across national systems, which can make the process more complex and time-consuming.

Interim executives with experience from international defence environments are typically already familiar with this complexity. It is part of what we look for when matching executives to assignments in international structures.

Frequently asked questions

Who issues security clearances in Denmark?

The Military Security Service at the Danish Defence Intelligence Service (FE) issues security clearances. PET contributes a register check — and for higher classification levels, a more thorough personal investigation.

How long does a security clearance take?

It varies with the classification level and the individual’s background. A basic clearance can take weeks. Clearances for the highest levels involving a full personal investigation take longer. Start the process early — not once the executive has already been selected.

Can you place executives who already hold a clearance?

Yes. We have profiles with existing FE clearances. It is the first thing we establish when an assignment requires it — so we do not waste your time or the candidate’s.

Does our company also need to be authorised?

Yes, if you carry out classified work for the Danish Armed Forces, NATO or the EU. The company authorisation is issued by FE following a recommendation from the defence authorities or the Confederation of Danish Industry. You cannot apply directly, but FE advises on the process.

Does a clearance apply across countries?

Not automatically. International projects require clearances to be recognised across national systems — governed by international agreements, including the MISWG framework for industrial security. This can add complexity and time to the process.

Do you need an interim leader for an assignment with security requirements?

We quickly establish whether we have the right profile with the right clearance — and what the process requires if a clearance is needed. Contact us for an initial conversation with no obligation.

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