Description
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
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Engineering, Information Technology, Emergency Management, or related field required, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
7+ years of progressively responsible experience leading staff in a in physical security, law enforcement, campus safety, or public safety operations
Experience managing security in higher education, academic medicine, and/or research facilities
Expert knowledge of enterprise physical security systems
Understanding of ASIS standards, CPTED, risk assessment, architecture, and lifecycle planning
Experience supporting Clery Act and HIPAA-related security requirements (PCI-DSS not in scope)
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.
