A processor retainer assembly prevents inadvertent removal of a processor from a circuit board socket by forces exerted on an information handling system that are translated from a heat sink to the processor by the coupling of thermal grease between the heat sink and the processor. A retention frame couples to a motherboard around the processor socket to support movement of the processor retainer between open and closed positions. A securing device hinge rotationally couples the processor retainer to the retention frame and a securing device latch locks the processor retainer in the closed position to restrict movement of the processor from the socket. A heat sink contacts the processor through an opening in the processor retainer. Heat sink supports extending from the retention frame engage the heat sink so that a single processor retainer assembly retains the processor in the socket and the heat sink proximate to the processor.