The University of Rochester is seeking a Director of Physical Security to lead the development and modernization of an enterprise-wide physical security program across a complex academic and medical environment. 

This is a newly created, highly visible leadership role responsible for shaping strategy, advancing technology, and driving execution across a diverse portfolio that includes open campus environments, research facilities, and an academic medical center. 

The Opportunity 

This role is ideal for a builder and strategist who can assess current-state capabilities, identify risk, and define a clear path forward for physical security across the institution. 

You will partner closely with Public Safety leadership, IT, Facilities, and institutional stakeholders to deliver a modern, risk-based security program aligned with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. 

Key Responsibilities 

Enterprise Security Strategy & Governance 

• Lead development of an enterprise-wide physical security strategy, standards, and policies
• Conduct risk assessments and define a phased roadmap to address gaps across campuses and facilities
• Ensure alignment with regulatory requirements (Clery Act, HIPAA) and ASIS best practices 

Security Systems & Technology Leadership 

• Oversee architecture and lifecycle management of enterprise systems including access control, video surveillance (VMS), alarms/duress, and mass notification
• Drive system standardization, integration, and physical–IT convergence
• Establish vendor standards, design specifications, and long-term technology strategy 

Program Execution & Delivery 

• Lead implementation of security initiatives, system upgrades, and integrations across multiple sites
• Partner with IT, Facilities, and construction teams to deliver projects aligned to scope, budget, and schedule
• Ensure adherence to CPTED, NCS4, and industry best practices 

Leadership & Team Development 

• Lead and develop a team of technical leaders and security personnel (direct + indirect oversight)
• Build team capability, structure, and accountability
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing, and service-oriented culture 

Operational Readiness & Continuous Improvement 

• Support incident response and 24/7 operational readiness for critical events
• Oversee audits, system performance, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Develop KPIs, reporting, and executive-level updates to track program effectiveness 

This requires:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in physical security, public safety, or related environments
• Experience leading enterprise physical security programs, including access control, CCTV/VMS, and alarm systems
• Demonstrated ability to assess risk and implement security strategies across complex environments
• Experience managing vendors, budgets, and multi-site programs 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience in higher education, healthcare, research, or similarly complex environments
• Familiarity with ASIS standards, CPTED principles, and risk-based security frameworks
• Experience with enterprise platforms and system integration (e.g., Genetec or similar)
• Professional certifications such as CPP and/or CSSP 

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law. 

About University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is a leading private research university located in Rochester, New York, with a workforce of over 30,000 employees across academic, research, and healthcare environments. The University includes a top-tier academic campus and the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), one of the region’s largest employers and a nationally recognized academic medical center. This creates a uniquely complex environment that blends open campus settings with clinical, research, and high-security facilities. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and resilient environment for students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors. The team partners closely with University leadership, Information Technology, Facilities, and clinical operations to support a modern, risk-based approach to public safety and physical security. As the University continues to invest in infrastructure, technology, and campus growth, there is a strong focus on advancing enterprise-wide physical security strategy, systems, and standards.

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