ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, PUBLIC SAFETY & SECURITY at Longwood Gardens – Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

Longwood Gardens is seeking a full-time Associate Director, Public Safety & Security to help safeguard the experience of one of the world's most celebrated public gardens. This role provides strategic leadership for the oversight, coordination, and long-term planning of Longwood's safety and security programs. Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining safety and security standards across Garden Operations, Special Events, Parking & Transportation, Operations & Logistics, and Emergency Planning
  
• Managing and coordinating parking lot operations, including vendor assessments and securing third-party contractor support
  
• Leading transportation operations and maintaining a variety of fleet vehicles, including CDL buses
  
• Collaborating with law enforcement and other agencies for essential operations including traffic control and emergency planning
  
• Developing, implementing, and maintaining security policies, standards, and procedures to mitigate risk and identify potential safety and security vulnerabilities and operational hazards, providing recommendations for mitigation
  
• Leading patrol supervision, incident investigations, and day-to-day security functions
  
• Managing departmental budgets, staff scheduling, and ongoing training programs
  
• Building and sustaining relationships with external agencies, vendors, and contractors
  
• Recruiting, coaching, and developing a team of security professionals; overseeing performance and development evaluations
  
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure safety and security compliance and risk awareness
  

Schedule: Will vary and will include weekends, evenings, and holidays

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in Security Operations with a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role within security and public safety
  
• Proven experience in parking and transportation management preferred
  
• Proven understanding of risk management in security
  
• Exceptional organizational skills and keen attention to detail, paired with a strong commitment to guest experience and conflict resolution
  
• Current or willingness to obtain certification in First Aid, CPR, and AED use
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products
  
• Proven experience working with physical security systems, including CCTV, access control, and NIMS/ICS a plus
  
• A valid driver's license and the ability to lift
  
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions, and carry up to 50 lbs.
  
• Ability to work evenings, weekends and holidays

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.