Summary:
The Director of Security provides leadership and oversight for all physical security operations across Church of the City’s campuses. This role ensures a safe and welcoming environment for worship, ministry, and events by managing security systems, volunteer teams, contracted officers, policies, and processes. The Director of Security will serve as a liaison with local law enforcement and first responders, oversee emergency preparedness, and lead the continual improvement of churchwide safety practices.
Our heart is to provide both safety and hospitality to create an atmosphere where people can encounter Jesus without distraction or fear. The Director of Security will carry this dual responsibility: protecting our people and spaces while fostering an environment that feels open, welcoming, and grace-filled.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (other duties may be assigned):
- Strategic Security Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive multi-campus security plan; identify vulnerabilities, prioritize needs, and allocate resources effectively.
- Administer regular risk assessments; review and update security procedures and the churchwide Emergency Action Plan (EAP) annually.
- Partner with executive leadership to ensure security initiatives align with the church’s mission and operational goals.
- Emergency Preparedness & Response
- Develop, maintain, and train staff and ministry leaders on area-specific emergency procedures.
- Coordinate and lead emergency preparedness plans, drills, and after-action reviews.
- Act as incident commander during emergencies, directing team members and coordinating with church leadership and emergency responders.
- Serve as the lead security point person on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights at Church of the City Franklin, overseeing all security operations and ensuring smooth execution of safety protocols during services and ministry events.
- Ensure emergency incident and medical reports are accurately completed and submitted for internal review and insurance compliance.
- Team Leadership & Development
- Recruit, train, schedule, and lead volunteer security teams and contracted officers.
- Provide ongoing development in safety protocols, de-escalation, emergency response, and medical readiness.
- Set Sunday and event assignments for security personnel and volunteers.
- Monitor and evaluate team performance; identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
- Build a culture of engagement and retention through meaningful training and clear mission alignment.
- Coordinate safety and emergency training for non-security staff and volunteers, including ushers, greeters, parking, and broadcast teams.
- Systems & Equipment Oversight
- Oversee all physical security systems, including cameras, access control, keycard/badge systems, alarms, and communication devices.
- Manage procurement, maintenance, and inventory of security equipment and medical supplies (AEDs, trauma kits, first aid).
- Manage vendor relationships and contracts tied to security systems and services.
- Collaboration & Communication
- Collaborate closely with KidCity, City Students, Facilities, Community Life, and The Village teams to ensure security strategies align with ministry needs.
- Serve as the primary liaison with law enforcement and first responders.
- Balance security with hospitality, ensuring safety protocols foster a spirit of welcome and care.
- Administration & Continuous Improvement
- Manage the church’s security budget and allocate resources responsibly.
- Maintain discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information, incidents, and records.
- Pursue ongoing professional development, certifications, and industry training to stay aligned with best practices in security and emergency management.
Required Experience
- Professional experience in security management, law enforcement, military, or related field; large organizational or church context preferred.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to recruit, train, and inspire volunteers and staff.
- Proven ability to design and manage safety policies, emergency response plans, and operational systems.
- Experience with security technology platforms (video management, alarms, access control, emergency notification systems).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to lead with discretion, confidentiality, and composure under pressure.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for incident reporting and crisis communications.
- CPR/First Aid certification required (or ability to obtain within 6 months); advanced certifications (AED, Stop-the-Bleed, FEMA, ASIS, CPTED, Mental Health First Aid) preferred.
Required Competencies and General Skills:
A successful candidate possesses competency and demonstrated experience in effective communication, emotional intelligence and conflict resolution.
Must possess general computer skills, including proficiency with Google Suite. Maintains confidentiality and demonstrates strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. Capable of adhering to deadlines, managing multiple diverse assignments, and executing tasks effectively. Exhibits practical time management skills and works well in team settings. Demonstrates innovation by suggesting improvements within the scope of work, anticipating needs, and creating efficient, effective processes. Self-motivated, takes ownership of tasks, and shows flexibility and adaptability in dynamic situations.
Membership Requirement:
Church of the City employees are required to become a Stakeholder of the church within the first 6 months of employment and agree to the beliefs, standards and responsibilities outlined in the Stakeholder Agreement.
Qualifications:
A Christian in submission to the authority of the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit, as evident in lifestyle. Subscribes to and is in complete agreement with the Church of the City’s Statement of Faith. Represents and upholds Church of the City’s mission, vision, and culture by demonstrating a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and learning posture. The incumbent is willing to become a stakeholder of COTC within six months of hire.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift or carry up to 40lbs
Ability to sit for extended periods
Ability to work at a keyboard and other related equipment
Ability to move about to accomplish tasks related to role