Upstate New York HERC

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 

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. 

Qualifications 

• 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 Experience 

• 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 

About University of Rochester

Founded in 1850, the University of Rochester is one of the nation’s leading research universities and is the cultural, artistic, healthcare, and educational leader for the region. The University is home to nearly 12,000 students and 3,900 full- and part-time faculty, who serve the university’s teaching, research, and clinical missions in eight schools and colleges and its renowned medical center. The University of Rochester has a long tradition of breaking boundaries—always pushing and questioning, learning and unlearning. We transform ideas into enterprises that create value and make the world ever better. The University’s academic programs are delivered through seven units: •Arts, Sciences & Engineering •The Eastman School of Music•The School of Medicine and Dentistry•The School of Nursing•The Eastman Institute for Oral Health•The Simon Business School•The Warner School of Education

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