Director of Security and Safety

Overview

Support the mission of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, and Safari Golf Club of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife by leading safety and security efforts across our dynamic and diverse family of parks. This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a role that protects people, animals, and places that inspire wonder.

Responsibilities

Responsible for protecting the staff, guests, animal collection and physical assets of the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks (CFZP) from preventable harm and danger.

Policy, Compliance & Risk Management

• Oversee the development, review and execution of institution-wide security policies and procedures that comply with regulatory standards and achieve the organization’s strategic and operating priorities.
• Develops and oversees the implementation of policies and procedures for responding to first-aid and medical emergencies.
• Conducts and oversees loss prevention and overall risk management and assessment for the Zoo and Zoombezi Bay.
• Develops, oversees and evaluates the workplace safety program and ensures compliance with all federal, state and local laws and regulations.
• Acts as the liaison with OSHA, Bureau of Worker’s Compensation, and other workplace safety agencies.

Emergency Response & Incident Management

• Serves as primary contact for safety and security emergencies 24/7 and liaison with local and regional emergency personnel.
• Co-leads the emergency response planning team to ensure accreditation standards are met.
• Implements protocols for and occasionally deals directly with unruly or hostile guests or groups.
• Oversees Zoo and Zoombezi Bay EMS and the Special Response Team.
• Acts as Guest Engagement Director and Incident Commander as assigned.

Team Leadership & Training

• Develops and conducts security training for supervisors and staff.
• Conducts regular safety and security audits, inspections and emergency procedure drills.
• Plans, assigns and reviews work of Security Section employees, including hiring, performance reviews, and disciplinary actions.
• Serves as the safety expert for all staff development and training programs.
• With the EHS Manager, oversees the Zoo Safety Committee.

Operations, Coordination & Guest Service

• Coordinates with departments to ensure safety protocols and equipment are in safe working condition.
• Analyzes and prepares department budget and monitors labor costs.
• Plans special events coverage, movement of people and vehicles, and safe ingress/egress.
• Responsible for perimeter, traffic and crowd control and behind-the-scenes access.
• Patrols Zoo and Zoombezi Bay properties and investigates unusual activity.
• Maintains files on past employees and guests no longer allowed on property.
• Provides excellent internal and external guest service and conflict resolution.
• Constantly strives to further the mission and implements sustainable practices.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Security & Risk Analysis or Business preferred (10 years of experience may substitute).
• Minimum 5 years of mid-to-senior level experience in law enforcement, safety, security, and emergency preparedness required.
• Experience in an attraction/campus setting highly preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Technical & Regulatory Knowledge

• Experience developing and executing public safety and emergency preparedness programs.
• Familiarity with National Incident Management System and Incident Command System preferred.
• Experience handling internal safety/security issues including criminal conduct, investigations, and emergencies.
• Proficiency in a wide range of computer software; advanced skills preferred.

Leadership & Communication

• Proven strong managerial, administrative, and business skills.
• Ability to lead and inspire teams while holding them accountable.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently without direct supervision.

Physical & Legal Requirements

• Ability to inspect buildings and grounds across a 580-acre complex.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts.
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record.
• Current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Emergency Response Team (ERT) or First Aid, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification required.
• Must pass annual criminal background check and adhere to drug-free workplace policy.