University Executive Director of Public Safety

Job Title:

University Executive Director of Public Safety

The City University of New York (CUNY) is seeking a strategic, innovative, and solutions‑oriented leader to serve as the University Executive Director (UED) of Public Safety. Reporting to the Executive Vice Chancellor/Chief Operating Officer, the UED is the senior, most authority for public safety, security, emergency management, and risk mitigation across the University. This leader provides the strategic vision and operational oversight needed to modernize safety practices and ensure the well‑being of the CUNY community.

As CUNY’s chief public safety executive, the UED oversees safety operations across 26 urban campuses, managing a broad portfolio that includes crime prevention, investigations, access control, fire and life safety, emergency preparedness, crisis response, and complex risk assessments involving human, chemical, and cyber‑related threats. The UED also directs the Public Safety Training Academy, ensuring personnel receive high‑quality, compliant training aligned with state and municipal standards.

Working collaboratively with Campus Public Safety Directors, Peace Officers, and external partners, the UED leads the development of an integrated safety network across the University.

Key priorities include implementing system‑wide policies, strengthening alert and communication systems, scaling best practices and emerging technologies, and supporting campus leadership in maintaining safe and inclusive environments. The UED models exceptional leadership grounded in professionalism, accountability, and community trust, ensuring that CUNY remains a national leader in urban university public safety.

• Lead development, implementation, and continuous refinement of University‑wide public safety policies and standard operating procedures.
• Direct enterprise‑level emergency preparedness, continuity planning, and disaster readiness efforts.
• Provide strategic guidance and expert counsel to senior University leadership on public safety priorities, emerging risks, and resource needs.
• Supervise 15 essential public safety and administrative professionals, promoting excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Cultivate strong relationships with campus communities, partner organizations, and external stakeholders to promote a community‑centered approach to public safety.
• Support responsible planning, allocation, and stewardship of public safety resources and budgets.
• Participate in and/or manage University‑wide strategic planning, emergency management committees, and senior‑level forums.

Note:

This position is subject to a satisfactory background investigation by the University Office of Public Safety, which may include, but is not limited to, criminal history review, drug test, credit checks, driving record review, work history verification, reference checks, etc. This position is subject to random drug testing, as well as re‑fingerprinting and re‑investigation every five years. Within one year of appointment to this title, or sooner based on the availability and satisfactory completion of mandated university training, a person appointed to this position must qualify for Peace Officer status in accordance with the requirements of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, Bureau of Police Standards.

Persons appointed to this position must, within one year of appointment to this title, receive New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services certified firearms training in accordance with New York P.L. article 35 and be eligible to carry firearms.

To qualify, applicants should possess the following criteria: bachelor's degree and eight years’ related experience.

Compensation: $210,000 to $220,000. Posting is open until filled.

to see the full job posting, qualifications, and apply with a cover letter and resume to Job  # 31775.

CUNY’s employment page: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). The City University of New York (CUNY) is an EO/AA Employer.

NOTE:

Until further notice, this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule.