Job Description

Position Title: Head of Security


Reports To: Deputy Director of Operations


Status: Salaried, Exempt


Updated: December 3, 2025

Job Summary:

The Head of Security provides leadership to the Security team, manages the relationship with contracted security provider, and proactively consults and coordinates with all departments on proper security methods, procedures and concerns. In addition, the Head of Security is responsible for strong collaboration with the Deputy Director, Guest Services Manager, Retail Operations Manager, Special Events Manager, and stakeholders to provide all guests with an outstanding experience at AMFA.

Primary Responsibilities

Oversee strategic and operational planning as it relates to the administration of museum security service. Ensure departmental structure, organization, and systems can sustain security operations. Work in collaboration with the contracted security firm to implement all levels of security. Provide leadership for the museum's Security Department to ensure it is strategically and efficiently structured and staffed to best serve our diverse guest needs, safety, to meet operational financial guidelines and protect the art. Create a team culture that continuously re-enforces high quality guest service, without bias or filters. Be a role model for exceptional guest service for employees and volunteers. Provide an environment and practice where officers can modulate their approach to AMFA's diverse audience, maintaining authority while being sensitive to all guests, including first-time museum goers, non-native English speakers, and guests of various ages and races. Review and maintain comprehensive strategic plan for all aspects of security, including the Emergency Management plan. Oversee operational planning and implementation, including all aspects of managing the security staff, from hiring and training, to scheduling, and policy and procedures compliance audits. Ensure optimal scheduling of security staff for 24/7 security coverage, as well as proactively coordinating activities with other departments as necessary, in conjunction with the contracted security company. Facilitate public access to museum facilities, while ensuring appropriate level of safety and security for guests, staff, and physical assets. Be present as the top Security officer at AMFA's high profile and/or large-scale events and programs. In conjunction with Director of Facilities and Security, HR and Risk Manager, Deputy Director, and CFO, develop a comprehensive risk management program, in alignment with the museum's insurance. Oversee management of integrated security system, including all hardware and software applications and development of and adherence to appropriate protocols. Ensure all equipment is up to date and in working order. Assure emergency response protocols and relevant documentation are current, all staff are appropriately trained, and required communications systems are in place. Conduct emergency drills regularly. Prepares, maintains, and assures adherence to budgets and schedule for all security department projects. Ensure compliance with all requisite regulations concerning employee and public health and safety. Develop service and operations standards with a focus on consistent, superior guest service performance and financial accountability in all aspects of operations. Obtain and/or maintain CPR and First Aid certification. Be available to assist with HR and Risk Manager with sensitive employee matters, including providing support during disciplinary actions and escorting terminated or distressed employees from the premises if necessary. Adjust to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as events and security needs dictate.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

BA/BS or the equivalent combination of education and experience. IFCPP Security certification preferred. 7+ years relevant leadership experience required. Experience as a member of a security team in an arts or cultural environment with significant public access and substantial physical assets desired. In-depth knowledge of security systems and protocols. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as events and security needs dictate. Demonstrated experience with diverse work environments and commitment to racial equity is required. Ability to motivate, retain, and recruit staff to provide a continuously learning team environment to support the overall museum mission and high-quality guest service. Emergency planning and training experience. Ability to exercise sound judgment and common sense in handling emergencies. Ability to define and evaluate issues or emergencies and provide input for problem resolution. Understanding of basic First Aid procedures basic OSHA requirements. Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills; ability to communicate effectively and project a professional image when giving and taking information in writing, in person, and over the phone; must possess the skills to translate standards, operational concepts, and results to staff. Ability to build positive working relationships within as well as outside of organization. Possess leadership skills in listening, communicating, documenting, and writing in a professional manner. Capacity to work in a fast-paced, multitasking environment and the ability to be receptive to changing priorities, work well under pressure; excellent time management, problem solving, and analytical skills. Ability to adhere to Museum policies and to support management decisions in a positive, professional manner. Demonstrated proficiency and accuracy using M365 products, including Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, and other software programs.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

Physical demands: + Must maintain sufficient physical stamina to perform duties during extended shifts, high-traffic events, and emergency situations without compromising alertness or effectiveness.
+ Regularly stand and/or walk for prolonged periods of time (up to 5 hours at a time).
+ Regularly sit for prolonged periods of time (up to 5 hours at a time).
+ Regularly required to climb stairs.
+ Occasionally bend, lean, push, pull, stoop, and crawl.
+ Occasionally lift up to 25 lbs.
Communication demands: + Regularly required to use speech to interact with security, across all departments, and with guests.
Vision demands: + Regular use of visual acuity to review written materials, observe large crowds and provide detailed observations.
Auditory demands: + Regular ability to hear and comprehend verbal communication from staff, guests, and external partners in person and over communication devices.
+ Ability to detect and respond promptly to alarms, emergency signals, and other auditory cues in both quiet and noisy environments.
+ Capacity to maintain situational awareness during large events by listening for verbal instructions, crowd activity, and potential security concerns.
Work environment/exposure: + Work is performed both inside and outside Museum grounds.
+ Regularly, but temporarily, exposed to outside weather conditions; occasionally includes rain, snow, ice, sleet, and extreme hot or cold temperatures.
+ Occasionally exposed to noise levels up to eighty-five decibels.

Note:

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and qualifications of the Head of Security. It may be subject to change based on the Museum's specific needs and policies.