Dir. Security Operations (Reporting To Sr. Director)

SUMMARY

The Director of Security Operations reports to the Senior Director of Security, Safety, and First Aid, and is responsible for managing and overseeing the daily Security Operations and large special events security planning and execution. Key job responsibilities include operational leadership, policy and procedure management, incident response, team development, and planning and executing event security and emergency preparedness. The role will ensure best operating practices are implemented and maintained to provide the best experience to our customers and employees. This is a full-time, year-round position that transitions to a racing schedule during live racing, which includes evenings, nights, and weekends.

The position plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, protection, and resilience of the company, its assets, employees, and stakeholders. The Director leads and oversees the Security Operations, security planning, and implementing strategic initiatives. This is accomplished through assessments and resource allocation to safeguard the assets, employees, and continuity of operations. This position works closely with local, state, and federal agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, US Secret Service, and Louisville Metro Police.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ensure the day-to-day operations of the security department are effective and efficient.
• Develops and implements security policies, procedures, and post orders.
• Manage incident response protocols for day-to-day incidents, ensuring swift and effective responses.
• Participate in planning meetings and briefings as required for events and live racing regarding security requirements or concerns.

• Assist in the implementation of appropriate crisis management programs and recovery plans.
• Develop and administer site specific emergency action and disaster recovery plans that support safe, rapid, and efficient operational recovery.
• Maintain emergency protective actions, including evacuation, shelter-in-place, and crowd management plans.

• Evaluate security posture, including performing threat and vulnerability assessments to create mitigation strategies.
• Produce a monthly security report that highlights departmental activities, incidents, and actions taken.
• Coordinate appropriate investigations related to security incidents and make recommendations for law enforcement.

• Manage a comprehensive emergency exercise program.
• Assist with budgeting and strategic planning for Security Operations.
• Oversee maintenance of access control and surveillance systems in a timely manner.

• Use metrics to measure the effectiveness of the security program and track and report physical security issues.
• Implement best operating practices that are consistent with industry standards and recommendations.
• Gather security intelligence and implement preventative measures.
• Create and manage traffic and security deployments in coordination with private security and local law enforcement.
• Monitor all agencies conducting business at Churchill Downs including, but not limited to, the Lifestyle Program, Backside Chaplaincy, HBPA, KTA, and the Backside Learning Center.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Oversees the Managers of the day-to-day operations of security personnel to include Supervisors, full-time, part-time and seasonal employees in the Security Department.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Emergency Management, Security, or closely related discipline at an accredited university or college required.
• Five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Obtained or ability to obtain NIMS 100, 200, 700, and 800 within one year.
• Project management experience.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills required.
• Must pay attention to detail and the ability to multi-task.
• Must react with positive attitude and productively handle tasks as assigned.
• Must be able to work independently, exercising effective judgment and initiative.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience working in a similar setting.
• Law enforcement or military experience.
• Proficient in MS Office, Adobe Acrobat, Smartsheet, ISS 24/7, and Genetec.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Obtain a Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license as required by local jurisdiction.
• CPR/AED certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong analytical, strategic planning, and superior decision-making while managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and computer skills.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Maintain a positive attitude to deal effectively with guests, management, and employees.
• Ability to maintain confidential information.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with all business contacts.
• Ability to effectively communicate in English, in both oral and written forms.

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, and extended hours, inclusive of weekends, nights and holidays required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit or stand; walk; use hands to finger reach, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, and vibration. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may he made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.