Manager of Campus Safety & Risk Operations at Cushing Academy – Ashburnham, Massachusetts

The Manager of Campus Safety & Risk Operations provides operational oversight of the Academy’s contracted security services (Securitas) and serves as a key administrative partner to the CFOO in identifying, assessing, and mitigating institutional risks. This role ensures that daily safety "rounds" are effective, contract obligations are met, and campus-wide safety initiatives are integrated into the school’s long-term operational strategy.

The Manager leads all campus safety functions, including contracted security services, emergency management programs, investigative response, safety training, and security technology systems, while supporting institutional risk mitigation and long-term operational strategy.

Contract & Personnel Oversight (Securitas)

• Service Management: Act as the primary point of contact for the contracted security provider. Ensure all shifts are staffed according to the contract and that officers are trained in Cushing-specific protocols.
• Public Safety Coordinator: Act as the primary point of contact for the Ashburnham Public Safety department, including Police, Fire and EMS.
• Performance Quality: Conduct regular "spot checks" of officer performance, verify that safety rounds are being completed, and manage the "escort" and "safety check" request process to ensure timely response.
• Training Liaison: Coordinate with the security lead to ensure officers are trained in the Academy's specific Emergency Action Plans (EAP), CPR/AED, and "Stop the Bleed" protocols.

Risk Management & Compliance

• CFOO Support: Assist the CFOO with the annual insurance renewal process by gathering data on campus incidents, safety improvements, and loss-prevention measures.
• Hazard Identification: Conduct weekly physical audits of campus grounds (lighting, walkways, building access) and submit prioritized maintenance requests to mitigate liability.
• Emergency Preparedness: Lead the implementation of monthly drills (Fire, Lockdown, Shelter-in-Place). Document results and lead "After Action" meetings to refine protocols.
• Develops, authors, revises, and enforces campus safety policies, procedures, manuals, and operational guidelines in alignment with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Ensures institutional compliance with applicable safety, emergency management, and reporting regulations, including fire code compliance, and other relevant standards.
• Coordinates the enforcement of Academy policies, traffic and parking regulations, and applicable laws in collaboration with local law enforcement.

Instructional & Community Safety

• Safety Education: Serve as the internal instructor for staff certifications (CPR/AED/First Aid) to ensure the Academy remains compliant with state and athletic regulations without external vendor costs.
• Event Coordination: Manage the safety and parking logistics for high-profile campus events (Commencement, Family Weekend, Athletic Tournaments).

Security Systems Administration

• Oversees and administers all campus safety technology systems, including:

· CCTV surveillance systems

· S2 access control systems

· Emergency notification systems (Rave App)

· Guest registration systems (Envoy)

· Other safety software

• Monitors system functionality, access alerts, and security breaches; ensures timely corrective action.
• Coordinates with IT and Facilities to ensure integration, maintenance, and performance reliability of all safety-related systems.

Qualifications & Risk Management Requirements

• Education & Certification: bachelor’s degree in risk management, Emergency Management, or Public Administration. Professional designations such as Certified Risk Manager (CRM) or Associate in Risk Management (ARM) are preferred.
• Strategic Experience: 10+ years in institutional safety and risk mitigation, including 5+ years in a leadership role overseeing enterprise-level safety programs and liability reduction strategies.
• Regulatory & Response: Expertise, current BLS/CPR/AED Instructor certification. Advanced knowledge of NIMS/ICS for institutional continuity and compliance with OSHA/regulatory safety standards.
• Systems & Integrated Safety:
  • Data-Driven Oversight: Proficiency in incident reporting software with the ability to analyze trends for proactive risk assessment.
  • Philosophy: Experience developing "Community-Based" safety models that mitigate risk through de-escalation and stakeholder relationship-building rather than traditional enforcement.
  • Policy Development: Proven ability to draft and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that align safety protocols with organizational insurance and legal requirements.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Knowledge of campus safety operations, criminal procedures, and emergency management principles.
• Knowledge of safety technology systems and incident reporting platforms.
• Strong budget management and administrative skills.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment in high-stress and emergency situations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse campus community.
• Availability to respond to emergencies outside of normal business hours.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to traverse campus and respond rapidly during emergencies.
• Ability to perform duties requiring standing, walking, climbing stairs, bending, kneeling, and lifting the weight of a person in emergency circumstances.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Work environment includes moderate to high stress situations requiring rapid decision-making.