Assistant Vice President and Chief of Public Safety

Job Description

Assistant Vice President and Chief of Public Safety

Saint Louis University (SLU) invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the role of assistant vice president and chief of public safety (AVP). This on-site leadership opportunity offers the chance to play a visible and meaningful role in supporting a safe, welcoming campus community.

Located on a 271-acre campus in historic St. Louis, Missouri, SLU is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. Founded in 1818, SLU is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Guided by its enduring Jesuit mission, Saint Louis University offers approximately 15,300 students a highly rigorous and deeply transformative education that prepares them to become bold, confident leaders.

Reporting to the vice president for student development and serving as an integral member of the Student Life Leadership Team, the AVP provides outstanding leadership and guidance on overall safety and security. The AVP manages the daily operations of the Department of Public Safety (DPS); serves as the SLU representative with external law enforcement agencies, neighborhood security associations, and the general public on safety and emergency response issues; and represents the department with internal constituencies, including the Board of Trustees, the Office of the President, and other University leadership. The AVP develops and implements SLU's Emergency Operation Plan; oversees the Campus Incident Management Team; and ensures compliance with the Clery Act, as well as other University, local, state, and federal laws and regulations. The AVP manages a team of 110 professional staff, including six direct reports, and administers an operating budget of $11 million.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $176,000- $210,000.

Qualifications

Required qualifications for the assistant vice president and chief of public safety include:

• A bachelor's degree (master's preferred) or more than ten years of professional experience in a related field; experience in the field of public safety, law enforcement, or community engagement; and at least five years of senior management experience in a law enforcement setting.

• Familiarity with and support of the mission and values of Saint Louis University.

• Demonstrated outstanding interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.

• Experience and skill in conflict resolution and creative problem solving utilizing innovative and contemporary practices.

• Knowledge of emergency management procedures, practices, and regulations.

• Demonstrated success in recruiting, retaining, and leading complex organizations.

• Training and proficiency in trauma-informed care to support individuals and communities.


Application and Nomination
Saint Louis University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin March 13, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://apptrkr.com/6933057

• Contact J. Scott Derrick at jsd@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries.

• Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.


Visit the Saint Louis University website at www.slu.edu

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request.

To apply, visit; https://apptrkr.com/6933057

About the Employer

Located on a 271-acre campus in historic St. Louis, Missouri, SLU is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. Founded in 1818, SLU is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Guided by its enduring Jesuit mission, Saint Louis University offers approximately 15,300 students a highly rigorous and deeply transformative education that prepares them to become bold, confident leaders.