Senior Project Manager en Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University · Nashville, Estados Unidos De América · Onsite
- Senior
- Oficina en Nashville
Position Summary
Reporting to the Chief of Police, the Senior Project Manager is a strategic leader responsible for managing and implementing high-level initiatives, services, and advancements in areas of command interest for the Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPS). This role oversees multiple complex projects with concurrent deadlines, ensuring each is executed on time, within budget, and in alignment with the mission of VUPS to safeguard the institution and its diverse community. This position provides strategic direction and program-level oversight, ensuring all initiatives align with departmental priorities, university goals, and compliance standards.
The Senior Project Manager applies advanced project management methodologies to coordinate cross-departmental efforts, ensure stakeholder engagement, and deliver measurable results. Projects may vary in scope and focus but are united by their purpose: enhancing safety, operational effectiveness, and community trust.
Current and Anticipated Projects May Include
- Developing and implementing minimum security standards.
- Upgrading and managing campus access control and camera systems.
- Designing and delivering active assailant training programs.
- Implementing recommendations from the 21st Century Policing Report.
- Organizing and enhancing training and professional development programs.
- Leading initiatives to improve technology platforms and operational efficiencies.
Key Responsibilities
Project Planning and Execution
- Oversee multiple high-priority projects from initiation through completion, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
- Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, deliverables, milestones, and success metrics.
- Establishes operational plans and implements new or improved processes to optimize safety, efficiency and compliance outcomes.
- Manage project budgets and allocate resources effectively.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement
Serves as a key member of the departmental leadership team, collaborating with executive and command staff to develop and execute strategies that enhance operational value, fiscal efficiency, and service quality
- Organize and lead cross-departmental teams to achieve project goals.
- Serve as the primary liaison between police administration, IT, General Counsel, campus stakeholders, and external vendors.
- Establish and nurture effective relationships with staff, students, senior leadership, and community partners.
Strategic Analysis and Policy Development
- Analyze complex operational and safety challenges, providing data-driven solutions.
- Formulate policy and program recommendations to support and advance VUPS objectives.
- Ensure compliance with city, state, and federal laws, institutional policies, and operational agreements.
Communication and Reporting
- Oversee the flow and exchange of project-related information, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
- Develop presentations, reports, and briefings for senior leadership and other stakeholders.
- Promote a culture of accountability, decision-making, and continuous improvement.
Preferred Software and Technical Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Canva or similar presentation/graphic tools.
- Familiarity with safety-related technologies, including vehicle equipment, access controls, camera systems, and data security platforms.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of project management experience.
- Progressively responsible leadership experience in law enforcement/public safety; higher education experience highly desirable.
- Demonstrated success managing multiple projects with competing deadlines.
- Knowledge of technology solutions to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
- Experience with training program design, strategic planning, and fiscal management.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and drive results.
Working Conditions
Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with multiple concurrent priorities.
May require occasional evening or weekend work to meet critical project deadlines.
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.
