Director of Security

Summary of Responsibilities:

The Director of Security is responsible for overseeing all aspects of campus safety. This role includes developing and implementing safety policies, managing the security team, coordinating emergency response plans, and ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. They work collaboratively with all departments on campus to promote and ensure a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, team, and visitors. They will also be responsible for the protection and preservation of all physical assets.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for scheduling, staffing, ongoing operations as well as event Security for any and all functions on campus to ensure safety.
• Leads or assists with leading the Safety Council to ensure safety awareness, proper safety procedures, emergency preparedness and response.
• Ensures key protocols are administered and key integrity is preserved.
• Ensure proper and timely training of all Security employees, Safety Council, RA’s, Emergency Response Team, any other required associates.
• Lead Security team to conduct regular safety checks of all safety equipment, safety monitoring systems, keys, doors, etc.
• Self and team continually monitor video cameras to ensure proper safety and prevention of any unsafe situation.
• Coordinate and ensure executive protection for designated Highlands College officials.
• Manage the surveillance command center.
• Provide guidance and leadership to parking management and traffic coordination.
• Ensure financial objectives are met by adhering to budgetary guidelines.
• Work effectively with all teams to support safety and asset protection in all aspects of Highlands College.
• Work effectively with all state and government agencies to ensure immediate “first response” to all emergency situations and to procure the best training and skilled staffing for Highlands College.
• Develop and implement comprehensive safety and security policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments to identify and address potential hazards.
• Coordinate and lead the campus emergency response team.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures and crisis communication strategies.
• Conduct regular emergency drills and training sessions for the campus community.
• Communicate safety policies and procedures to students, faculty, staff, and visitors through various channels.
• Investigate and document all incidents and accidents on campus, providing detailed reports and recommendations for improvement.
• Collaboratively assist with security and safety needs of company related off-site events if and when necessary or requested.
  
  
  

Other Duties:

• Active participation in the ministry of Church of the Highlands through small group leadership, regular church attendance, and the promotion of the mission, vision, and values of Church of the Highlands.
• Affirm and uphold the Highlands College Statement of Faith, support the mission and vision of Highlands College, exemplifying these by word and lifestyle.
• Assist in the overall cleanliness and maintenance of campus by reporting any necessary items to Facilities.
  
  
  

Leadership Requirements:

• Provides leadership to the Security team and Safety Council and support all teams with the function of safety.
• Assists the Executives of Highlands College with any Security and Safety needs.
• Provides clear and concise information as needed to ensure the ongoing safety and security of the Highlands College campus, team, and students.
• Sets clear and challenging objectives, inspiring and encouraging high performance in teams and individuals.
• Reviews progress achieved, publicly and privately recognizing achievement.
• Anticipates the possible demands and outcomes of a particular task or situation – plans and prioritizes appropriately.
  
  
  

Qualifications

Personal Characteristics:

• Demonstrates critical thinking abilities, analytical thought, root cause analysis, and problem solving.
• Highly focused, self-started with an elevated level of energy and positive outlook.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to campus safety and security.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency in emergency response planning and incident management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to remain resilient under pressure and effectively adapt to multiple demands, ambiguity, and rapid change while preserving the integrity of safety and security.
  
  
  

Essential Traits:

• Integrity, Honesty, Trustworthiness
• Critical Thinking
• Analytical skills
• Calming demeanor
• Action-orientated
• Initiative
• Customer Service
• Clear and concise communication skills (verbal & written)
• Ability to make independent decisions
  
  
  

Knowledge:

• Current with “first response” certifications: First Aid, CPR, AED.
• Highly skilled and licensed gun handler. This is an armed position.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft applications and other necessary softwares applicable to position.
  
  
  

Education:

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in a Safety and Security related field preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years in leadership required in law enforcement, Safety, Security, or related field required.
• A minimum of 10 years in law enforcement or armed security preferred.
  
  
  

Extent of Public Contact:

• High
  
  
  

Physical Demands:

• Moderate to high exposure to physical risk.
• Good overall fitness and physical condition is required.
• Ability to drive between campuses.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs without assistance.
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, and stay alert for long periods of time.
• Licensed, able, and highly proficient in gun handling.
  
  
  

Direct Reports:

• This position is a team lead for the Security department and reports to the Executive Director of Campus Operations.