Head of Security and Safety

About the role

The Head of Security & Safety oversees a team of over 150 security officers and manages a budget of about $7 million. The department secures a large 14-acre campus facility in the heart of an urban environment, and 32 acres of off-campus properties.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all security and safety services, including 24/7 operations and emergency preparedness.
• Develop/implement policies and procedures, including crisis management protocols.
• Secure and protect MFAH's physical assets, art works, facilities, people, users, dignitaries, visitors and the general public.
• Manage and train all back-office and front-of-house security personnel.
• Ensure high levels of customer service and positive experiences for all museum visitors and affiliates.
• Manage effective shift schedules, overtime administration, and payroll administration.
• Implement and ensure the highest level of customer service by security and gallery operations staff.
• Assess security and safety threats and plan appropriate strategies and countermeasures.
• Develop and train for emergency response scenarios, including with local law enforcement and first responders.
• Maintain cross-sector partnerships with appropriate government agencies, officials and security partners.
• Support senior management and the Board on security matters.
• Oversee record keeping and documentation for campus security.

Qualifications and Characteristics

• Significant experience managing security and safety functions for campus facilities of similar size and complexity.
• Proven ability to manage and work with a diverse group of personalities.
• A strong educational background (an MA in management or a BA combined with professional experience).
• Strong and demonstrated skills in fiscal year budgeting & planning, personnel management, payroll oversight, scheduling, contract management, event planning and strategic people management.
• Conversant with the current state-of-the-art in security and safety technology, devices, and practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and persuasion skills.
• Outgoing and straightforward manner; able to share information easily and respect the abilities of others.
• Critical thinker who can analyze data and capitalize on information.
• Well-organized and deadline-oriented, with exceptional attention to detail and follow-through.
• Emotional maturity and self-possession; patience and tact, with a sense of humor and the sensitivity to work with diverse personalities.
• Persuasive and persistent in the pursuit of objectives set by the COO and the Executive Team.