Director of Safety & Security, Campus

Position Summary

Vanderbilt University seeks a Director of Safety & Security to provide strategic and operational leadership for safety, security, and emergency management at the University’s extended campus in New York City (Chelsea).

The Director of Safety & Security serves as the senior on-site safety leader and is responsible for ensuring a safe, secure, and supportive living and learning environment for approximately 120 undergraduate students, faculty and staff who reside on campus and participate in academic programming and internships throughout New York City. This position oversees campus-specific safety planning, emergency preparedness, incident response, and external partnerships, while aligning local operations with Vanderbilt University policies, standards, and best practices.

The Director works in close collaboration with Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD), campus leadership, student life, housing and residential experience, and local public safety agencies to support a comprehensive, student-centered approach to safety in an urban environment.

The Division of Administration supports Vanderbilt University’s academic mission by providing essential services that ensure a safe, efficient, and welcoming campus environment. As Vanderbilt expands its academic footprint beyond Nashville, the New York City campus represents a strategic investment in immersive, city-based learning experiences. Safety and security operations for the NYC campus are designed to integrate Vanderbilt standards with the unique considerations of an urban residential setting.

• Serves as the primary authority for safety and security operations at the NYC campus.
• Develops, implements, and maintains campus-specific safety and security plans consistent with Vanderbilt policies and applicable regulations.
• Provides oversight of physical security systems, access control, surveillance, and incident response protocols.
• Maintains a visible presence on campus to foster trust, engagement, and confidence among students and staff.

• Leads emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for the NYC campus, including medical emergencies, fire safety, severe weather, missing students, and critical incidents.
• Serves as the on-site incident lead during emergencies and coordinates response efforts with Vanderbilt leadership and local agencies.
• Conducts emergency drills, tabletop exercises, and training sessions for staff and students.

• Partners with student life, residential staff, and academic leadership to proactively address student safety concerns.
• Provides guidance and response support related to student housing, commuting, internships, and city-based activities.
• Supports crisis response and participates in after-hours on-call coverage as required.

• Establishes and maintains strong working relationships with NYPD, FDNY, local EMS, building security, and other external partners.
• Serves as Vanderbilt’s primary on-site liaison for safety and security matters in New York City.
• Coordinates responses to incidents involving students off campus, including internship and program-related activities.

• Ensures compliance with university policies, local and state regulations, and applicable safety standards.
• Supports Clery Act–related incident documentation and reporting in coordination with Vanderbilt Police and central administration.
• Identifies emerging risks associated with urban operations and recommends mitigation strategies.

• Delivers safety orientations and ongoing education for students, faculty, and staff.
• Communicates clearly and effectively during incidents and campus-wide safety situations.
• Promotes a culture of preparedness, shared responsibility, and continuous improvement.

This position will provide functional oversight of security personnel or third-party security vendors, as applicable.

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice,…