Director of Safety and Security

What You’ll Do
Set Strategic Vision & Direction
You’ll provide leadership that aligns safety and security operations with the school’s mission and long-term plans.

Set the vision and strategy of the safety and security organization to foster a school and mission-oriented culture and mindset
Maintain and execute the safety and security roadmap that aligns operations to the school’s future plans and implements best-in-class services, capabilities, and flexibility
Serve as a trusted advisor to school leadership, building and maintaining relationships with other executives to understand school needs and ensure cost-effective delivery of services
Provide strategic direction on the development of standards, governance controls, Steering Committees, security and risk management, and infrastructure and operations support management
Stay current with trends in school safety and security, helping the school leverage available tools, methodologies, and solutions
Work with external partners and counterparts to ensure an appropriate standard of care is provided across campus
Respond with agility to changing priorities and emerging security needs
Oversee Security Operations & Personnel
You’ll manage the day-to-day operations of campus security and supervise security personnel to ensure effective monitoring and protection.

Oversee and provide strategic direction of facility security equipment including alarm panels, visitor management system, security cameras, and scanners
Provide prevention and detection of criminal activity and safety hazards across campus
Enforce parking and other school regulations and provide overall assistance to facility staff, students, and the campus community
Schedule, supervise, and actively manage full-time and part-time safety and security personnel to ensure effective monitoring and operations of security
Recruit, schedule, supervise, and actively engage full-time and part-time City of Atlanta Police officers to ensure appropriate levels of security for general campus operations and public events (sporting events, performances, etc.)
Provide visibility, training, tools, and controls throughout the organization to allow for continual safety and security improvement
Lead by example and model a commitment to safety, professionalism, and community care
Ensure Compliance & Manage Risk
You’ll maintain rigorous compliance with all school, regulatory, and policy requirements while managing institutional risk.

Ensure compliance with school requirements, regulatory requirements, policies, and standards
Maintain knowledge and understanding of Information Security and Privacy practices
Stay informed on emerging safety and security technologies and best practices
Develop and implement security protocols and procedures that protect students, staff, and visitors
Coordinate with school leadership on emergency preparedness, crisis response, and business continuity
Maintain accurate records and documentation related to security incidents, training, and operations
Build Community & Relationships
You’ll foster trust and partnership across the school community, creating a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Build and maintain strong relationships with school leadership, faculty, staff, and families
Communicate effectively about safety initiatives, policies, and procedures to all stakeholders
Partner with external agencies including law enforcement, emergency services, and security industry partners
Support the creation of a welcoming environment where students and families feel secure and valued
Engage with student and parent groups to understand concerns and build community trust
Serve as a visible, approachable presence on campus
Who You Are
You bring:

Education & Certifications:

Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, security management, homeland security, organizational management, or related field (Master’s degree preferred), OR equivalent work experience
10+ years of progressive management roles (prior Director, CSO, or Chief preferred)
15+ years of security services experience
Certification in Physical Security (e.g., Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or equivalent) within 2 years of hire
Membership in National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) with completed Basic SRO Course and Advanced SRO Course training, OR ability to complete within 6 months of hire
Certified Armed Security license in Georgia, OR ability to obtain licensing within 3 months of employment if you hold Retired Peace Officer credentials issued by a law enforcement agency, OR equivalent certification that meets required standards
Own lawfully registered weapon, ammunition, and equipment
Experience:

Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, organization design, leadership, and resource development
Proven track record managing security personnel and operations at scale
Experience coordinating with law enforcement and external security partners
Understanding of school safety best practices and emerging security technologies
Background in risk assessment and compliance management
Related educational industry experience and/or experience with law enforcement in the City of Atlanta or other law enforcement agencies (strongly preferred)
Personal Qualities:

Strategic thinker who can see the big picture while managing operational details
Mission-oriented – You understand the unique culture of independent schools and can balance security with creating a welcoming, trusting community
Trusted advisor – You communicate clearly, listen well, and earn the confidence of school leadership and the broader community
Leader – You inspire teams, model professionalism, and lead by example
Problem-solver – You stay calm under pressure, think creatively about security challenges, and respond with flexibility
Relationship builder – You work effectively with diverse stakeholders—law enforcement, school staff, students, families, external partners
Committed to diversity and inclusion – You foster an inclusive security culture that serves and protects all community members
Physically capable – You can perform security duties including bending, stooping, climbing stairs, walking, reaching, and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds
You have:

Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong organizational and project management abilities
Knowledge of information security and privacy practices
Proficiency with security technology and systems
Physical agility and the ability to work in varied conditions
Valid Georgia Driver’s License