Director of Security

Aza•San Diego, CA

43d

About The Position

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a nonprofit international conservation leader, committed to inspiring a passion for nature and creating a world where all life thrives. Empowering people from around the globe to support our mission to conserve wildlife through innovation and partnerships, we support cutting-edge conservation, and bring the stories of our work back to our two world-famous front doors - the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park - giving millions of guests, in person and virtually, the opportunity to experience conservation in action. The deep and extensive knowledge gained from more than a century of experience in wildlife care, health, veterinary services, nutrition and conservation makes us invaluable in the global effort to save species. Our team members play a crucial role in driving our conservation efforts forward and bringing us closer to a world where all life thrives. HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION The Director of Security is responsible for the development and implementation of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance security plan. This role is responsible for the strategic planning of the security plan through interdepartmental collaboration. This position reports to the Vice President & Deputy Directors, at the Safari Park and San Diego Zoo.

Requirements

Must have 10 years of experience in security or law enforcement, preferably in a visitor attraction, government agency or course work in business administration, hospitality management, recreation management, or a related field or equivalent specialized training.
Experiencing managing multiple departments and/or work sites required.
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, related field or equivalent experience required.
Guard Card within 90 Days
Current valid driver's License in good standing
CPR/First Aid Upon Hire
Excellent leadership abilities to oversee multiple functions or departments through subordinate managers and professional staff and the ability to establish metrics for department and employee goals which measure effectiveness of contributions to efficient operations of the department.
Ability to have a thorough and deep understanding of the organization's highest security risks.
Knowledge and experience utilizing and sourcing security systems, such as electronic access control, security cameras and emergency notification systems.
Ability to write emergency plans and security and safety policies and procedures.
Knowledge of first aid and emergency response procedures.
Knowledge of cash control, key control, and loss prevention best practices.
Able to respond and act as a leader/first responder in emergency situations.
Able to effectively lead diverse teams.
Able to handle highly complex, volatile situations with a high level of professionalism, tact, and diplomacy.
Knowledge of local statutes, regulations, laws, and law enforcement agencies.
Advanced knowledge and understanding of concepts, principles, methods, and techniques within the areas of physical security.
Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy and developing and implementing new strategies and procedures.
Ability to gather facts and data for technical proposals and to expand upon them or develop alternatives and to evaluate emerging techniques and identify their potential impact within the existing environment.
Able to effectively oversee key strategic areas: Security, Disaster Awareness and Preparedness, Incident Response and Threat Detection and Identify and Access Management.
Able to communicate effectively (verbal and written).
Able to operate moderately computer systems.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree in related field preferred.
Relationship with and knowledge of local law enforcement personnel and operations preferred.

Responsibilities

Responsible for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance organizational security plan to include San Diego locations (San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Rancho Bernardo Warehouse, etc.)
Through the direct supervision of security managers, provide oversight of departmental operational programs to ensure effective delivery of services, meaningful collaboration, project management, and communications.
Develop and maintain effective relationships with local/state/federal law enforcement, government agencies and first responders to stay aware of security trends, threats, and resources.
Through active partnership with Risk Management and cross-departmental collaboration, develop emergency action plans and SOPs to ensure the security and safety of team members, guests, and wildlife.