Vice President of Security & Public Safety

Charlotte Hornets; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team as the Vice President of Security & Public Safety, where you will lead the charge in creating a safe and secure environment for fans and staff at one of the most exciting venues in sports and entertainment. This pivotal role involves developing comprehensive security strategies, managing a dedicated team, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure the highest standards of safety. If you are a seasoned security professional with a passion for public safety and a commitment to excellence, this is your chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant and diverse environment. Embrace the opportunity to enhance security protocols and elevate the experience for everyone at the Spectrum Center and beyond.

Benefits

Health benefits

Competitive time off policies

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• 10+ years in security management with leadership experience in large venues.
• Relevant certifications like CPP or CSMP are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee building and event security, ensuring safety for all visitors.
• Develop and implement security strategies and manage crisis response.

Skills

Crisis Management

Communication Skills

Risk Management

Analytical Skills

Decision-Making Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice

Advanced degree (preferred)

Tools

Surveillance Systems

Access Control Systems

Incident Reporting Software

Job description

Vice President of Security & Public Safety

Job Category: Operations

Requisition Number: VICEP001549

Posted: January 27, 2025

Employment Type: Full-Time

Work Location: On-site

Job Overview

The Vice President of Security & Public Safety is responsible for overseeing all aspects of building and event security for Hornets Sports & Entertainment (HSE) at Spectrum Center and the Hornets Practice Facility. This leadership role ensures a safe and secure environment for fans, employees, artists, athletes, and all visitors. You will develop and implement comprehensive security strategies, policies, and procedures, balancing risk management, incident response, and customer service. Working collaboratively with internal departments and external agencies, this position will drive continuous improvement of security protocols to provide a safe experience while enhancing HSE security reputation.

Core Values

HSE embodies the following core values:

• Integrity
• Teamwork
• Accountability
• Resilience

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Security Planning

• Develop, implement, and oversee security strategies, policies, and procedures that address all HSE building and event security needs.
• Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability analysis to identify potential threats; create proactive plans to mitigate risks.
• Coordinate with senior leadership to ensure security measures align with organizational goals, compliance standards, and safety regulations.
• Serve as the primary security advisor for executive leadership on matters related to venue security and safety.
• Develop, manage, and monitor the security department's annual budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources for both building and event security needs.
• Analyze and forecast budgetary requirements, prioritize spending based on risk assessment, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety standards.
• Manage relationship and provide instruction to IST Mail Services.

Facility Security Operations

• Manage all HSE building security operations, including surveillance, access control, and perimeter security, to prevent unauthorized access and ensure safety around the clock for both Spectrum Center and Hornets Practice Facility.
• Oversee the selection, training, and performance of security personnel, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle various security scenarios.
• Implement and maintain physical security measures, including alarm systems, surveillance systems, and security technology solutions.

Event Security Management

• Oversee the planning, staffing, and coordination of security operations for events, including concerts, sporting events, and special events.
• Work closely with NBA, event managers, law enforcement, emergency services, and private security contractors to ensure security protocols are followed.
• Create and ensure proper distribution and training of event security plans, including crowd control, access control, bag checks, and emergency evacuation procedures.

Crisis and Incident Management

• Lead crisis response efforts, including coordinating with emergency responders, managing crowd control, and ensuring clear communication with staff and guests.
• Establish protocols for responding to various incidents, including medical emergencies, security breaches, evacuations, and crowd-related issues.
• Conduct post-event reviews and incident analyses to identify areas for improvement and strengthen security measures.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including safety and security protocols required for large venues.
• Implement best practices for security that align with industry standards, such as those recommended by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
• Develop and oversee ongoing training programs for security staff, including emergency response, conflict resolution, and customer service.

Stakeholder Relations and Communication

• Build and maintain relationships and serve as liaison for government entities (CMPD/CFD/FBI, etc.), National Basketball Association (NBA), and other teams, venues, and Charlotte organizations to effectively create and deliver HSE's safety and security strategy.
• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., Operations, Events, Guest Services) to align security procedures with organizational goals and event requirements.
• Serve as a liaison with partners (CRVA, Levy & Jani King) and building occupants (i.e., NCAA, show producers, etc.).

Required Skills, Experience, and Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Public Safety, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in security management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably within a large-scale venue, arena, or stadium.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Certified Security Management Professional (CSMP), or Certified Sports Security Professional (CSSP) are highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of security technology systems, including surveillance, access control, and incident reporting software.
• Excellent communication, crisis management, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external agencies.
• Strong analytical and risk management skills with the ability to anticipate and address potential security issues proactively.
• Must be available to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the event schedule.
• Ability to respond to emergencies on a 24/7 basis as needed.
• Physical requirements may include standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods, as well as the ability to perform rapid response activities in an emergency.

Additional Information

This is a full-time benefit-eligible position. HSE is dedicated to creating and upholding a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity.

HSE provides valuable benefits and competitive time off policies to help you and your family lead healthy, balanced lives.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All requests for medical or religious accommodations to perform the stated job duties will be considered.