Vice President for Public Safety

Temple University was founded in 1884 as a night school for working-class Philadelphians aspiring to the American dream. As Philadelphia's only four-year public university, Temple is one of the 50 largest public, four-year universities in America, with campuses in Philadelphia and the region, as well as in Rome, Tokyo, and Kyoto.

Reporting to the senior vice president and chief operating officer, the vice president for public safety serves as Temple University's chief public safety officer and provides strategic vision, executive leadership, and operational oversight for a complex urban public safety organizations. Responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive safety and security program across five campuses in the Philadelphia region and partnering closely with Temple Health, the vice president leads an integrated public safety enterprise that includes sworn police services, proprietary and contract security, emergency communications, security technology, emergency management and preparedness.The vice president oversees approximately 200 employees, manages an operating budget of approximately $34 million, and serves as the university's primary liaison with local, state, and federal law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

The salary range is $300,000 - $350,000.

Qualifications

A bachelor's degree and at least ten years of progressive experience in the field of public safety, law enforcement, and community engagement in a higher education setting are required. A master's degree and at least five years of senior management experience are preferred.

The successful candidate will possess significant knowledge of higher education safety and emergency response practices, excellent strategic and operational abilities, outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, and high emotional intelligence. Additionally, a demonstrated commitment to community-centered public safety as a core professional value is essential. The ideal candidate will provide evidence of working effectively within a complex urban university environment.

Key expectations for the successful candidate include skill in conflict resolution and creative problem solving; training and proficiency in the application of trauma-informed practices to support individuals and communities; experience working with a unionized work force and a record of success establishing and maintaining positive labor/management relations; a proven ability to motivate and build a diverse workforce to succeed as a high-functioning team; and the capacity to inspire trust and confidence among students, faculty, staff, parents and the neighboring community.

Application and Nomination

Temple University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin August 12, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/vice-president-for-public-safety/

• Contact Mark Hall at mah@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 Temple University website at www.temple.edu

Temple University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all in every aspect of its operations, including employment, service, and educational programs. The University has pledged not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin or ethnic origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or veteran status.

To apply, please visit: https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/vice-president-for-public-safety/