Director of Security

Davidson Academy•Nashville, TN

About The Position

Davidson Academy is seeking a Christ-following, motivated, organized, detail-oriented, Director of Security. The Director of Security leads the school's comprehensive safety and security program, ensuring a secure campus while aligning with Davidson Academy's Christian mission, values, and biblical principles. Davidson Academy is an Infant-12th grade Christian private school located in Nashville, TN. Serving a diverse student population from Davidson County, Sumner County, Robertson County and the surrounding counties, we believe in the Biblical-based instruction of preparing our students for college, life, and eternity. All Davidson Academy personnel must adhere to our statements of faith. The Director of Security provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all aspects of campus safety and security at Davidson Academy. This role ensures a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for students (preschool through grade 12), faculty, staff, families, and visitors. The Director develops, implements, and manages security policies, emergency response plans, training programs, and daily operations in full alignment with the school's Christian philosophy, mission to glorify God, Tennessee state regulations, and best practices in school safety. The position models integrity, vigilance, and servant leadership while fostering a culture of safety rooted in biblical principles. This leadership position offers the opportunity to steward a safe, faith-affirming environment where students can thrive spiritually, academically, and personally within a supportive Christian community.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree
Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in security, law enforcement, military police, or school/campus safety; prior leadership/supervisory role strongly preferred.
MNPS or similar experience is preferred.
Experience in a K-12 school environment or private/Christian school setting is highly desirable.
Whole-hearted agreement with Davidson Academy’s Statements of Faith, Philosophy of Christian Education, and mission; active member in good standing of a local evangelical church aligned with the school's beliefs.
Demonstrated Christian character and role model in attitude, speech, and actions.
Certifications preferred: Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), ASIS certifications, CPR/First Aid/AED instructor, Stop the Bleed, or similar; must maintain current certifications.
Strong knowledge of school safety best practices (e.g., ALICE, Run-Hide-Fight, threat assessment), emergency management, risk mitigation, and relevant Tennessee laws/regulations.
Excellent leadership, communication (verbal/written), organizational, and interpersonal skills; ability to remain calm and decisive in high-stress situations.
Proficient in technology for security systems, reporting, and administrative tasks.
Clear criminal background check, fingerprinting, and drug screening; valid driver's license.
Physically able to perform duties, including patrolling campus and responding to emergencies.

Responsibilities

Oversee all campus security operations, including daily patrols, access control, visitor management, surveillance systems (cameras, alarms), and on-site security personnel or contracted services.
Develop, update, and implement comprehensive safety and emergency management plans, including protocols for fire, severe weather (tornado), intruder/active threat, medical emergencies, lockdowns, evacuations, and crisis response.
Coordinate and conduct regular safety drills (fire, tornado, intruder/active shooter) and training for faculty, staff, and students; ensure compliance with state requirements and best practices.
Collaborate with local law enforcement, emergency services, fire department, and other agencies to enhance preparedness, conduct joint trainings, and respond to incidents.
Manage security technology and infrastructure, including CCTV, access systems, communication tools (radios, mass notification), and emergency equipment; recommend upgrades as needed.
Lead threat assessment, risk analysis, and vulnerability evaluations; develop mitigation strategies and incident reporting procedures.
Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate security staff or officers; provide ongoing professional development in de-escalation, first aid/CPR, emergency response, and Christian worldview integration.
Serve as the primary point of contact for security-related matters; respond to incidents, conduct investigations, document reports, and ensure confidentiality and biblical conflict resolution (Matthew 18 principle).
Partner with administration, faculty, and parents to promote a proactive safety culture; communicate safety policies, updates, and resources effectively.
Oversee security budgeting, equipment procurement, and resource allocation to maintain fiscal responsibility.
Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, accreditation standards (e.g., Cognia), insurance requirements, and school policies.
Participate in administrative meetings, chapel/events, and community outreach as needed to represent security positively.
Model Christ-like character, professionalism, and calm under pressure; apply Christian principles in all interactions.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Head of School.