Chief of Police bei Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University · Nashville, Vereinigte Staaten Von Amerika · Onsite
- Senior
- Optionales Büro in Nashville
The Chief of Police serves as Vanderbilt University’s senior law enforcement executive, providing strategic leadership, vision, and oversight for all safety, security, emergency management, and workforce protection functions across the University enterprise. This includes the academic campus, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, and numerous clinics throughout Middle Tennessee.
As the head of the Public Safety Department, the Chief of Police shapes long-term strategy, fosters a culture of integrity and accountability, and ensures that all operations align with Vanderbilt’s mission and values. The position builds strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement and emergency agencies, ensuring Vanderbilt remains a national model for higher education public safety.
About the Work Unit
Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is a comprehensive, accredited department composed of more than 400+ professionals dedicated to ensuring a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for the Vanderbilt community. VUPS includes commissioned police officers, community service officers, emergency preparedness professionals, workforce safety specialists, and administrative personnel. The department operates under a community-oriented policing model that emphasizes proactive engagement, respect, and service to all members of the Vanderbilt community.
Key Functions and Expected Performance
Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Set and execute the long-term strategic direction for Vanderbilt University Public Safety in alignment with the University’s mission, vision, and values.
• Serve as the principal advisor to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and University leadership on law enforcement, security, and emergency preparedness.
• Represent Vanderbilt to local, state, and federal law enforcement and emergency management agencies; develop and sustain collaborative partnerships that strengthen institutional readiness.
• Anticipate and mitigate emerging risks and safety concerns through data-driven strategies and continuous innovation.
Operational Excellence & Resource Stewardship
• Provide executive oversight of all Public Safety operations, including police services, security, emergency preparedness, workforce safety, and dignitary protection.
• Lead the development, administration, and monitoring of multimillion-dollar operational and capital budgets, ensuring sound fiscal stewardship.
• Establish departmental policies, general orders, and regulations that govern the professional and ethical operation of the Vanderbilt University Police Department.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, accreditation standards, and University policies.
• Implement metrics and accountability systems to evaluate and enhance the quality, effectiveness, and transparency of services provided to the community.
Emergency Management & Community Resilience
• Direct the University’s emergency management framework, including preparedness, response, recovery, and continuity of operations.
• Oversee the activation and operation of the Emergency Operations Center during critical incidents and large-scale events.
• Ensure robust planning for dignitary protection and special event security across all University and Medical Center facilities.
• Build institutional capacity for rapid response through partnerships, scenario planning, and continuous improvement in crisis readiness.
Leadership, Culture & Talent Development
• Lead the Public Safety leadership team in building a culture defined by excellence, accountability, integrity, and trust.
• Champion workforce development, succession planning, and leadership growth to strengthen organizational capability and retention.
• Serve as a visible and accessible leader who models integrity, empathy, and professionalism in every interaction.
• Promote collaboration and innovation within the department and across campus, ensuring Public Safety is a trusted partner in the University’s success.
Supervisory Relationships
This position has overall executive responsibility for all divisions and personnel within Vanderbilt University Public Safety. The Chief of Police reports directly to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and provides leadership to deputy chiefs, directors, and senior managers overseeing police operations, emergency management, workforce safety, parking, and support services.
Education and Certifications
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education required.
• Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education highly preferred.
• Graduate of the FBI National Academy and/or Southern Police Institute highly preferred.
• Possession of Tennessee P.O.S.T. certification (or ability to obtain within six months of appointment) required.
• Possession of a special police commission from the Chief Law Enforcement Official in Metropolitan Nashville (within six months) required, with annual recommissioning thereafter.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University utilizes a third-party monitoring service for compliance.
Experience and Skills
• Minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least seven (7) years in a senior command or executive leadership role within a complex organization (e.g., higher education, healthcare, or large metropolitan environment).
• Demonstrated success leading large, multifaceted teams (400+ employees) and managing multimillion-dollar budgets.
• Student and community centered leadership approach, emphasizing service, accessibility, and partnership in creating a safe and welcoming campus.
• Extensive knowledge of contemporary police administration, emergency management, and community engagement practices.
• Proven record of executive decision-making, interagency coordination, and crisis leadership at local, state, or federal levels.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with strategic resource planning and performance management.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills across diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven experience leading organizational change with resilience and focus, effectively addressing challenges to strengthen all aspects of public safety operations and community trust.
Company
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
