Executive Director, Safety - Office of Chief of Staff (2024-25)

Oakland Unified School District - Alameda, CA

Full-time - Executive

Alameda, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Executive Director of Safety plays a pivotal role in ensuring a safe and secure environment for both students and staff within the school district. This position is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership for safety, critical incidents, and security programs across the district. The Executive Director will set the strategic direction for the district's security infrastructure, developing long-range goals and objectives that align with the district's vision, mission, values, and strategic plans, including adherence to Board Policies such as the George Floyd Resolution. In this role, the Executive Director will work to align existing safety efforts across various departments and schools within the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD). This includes collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and emergency responders as necessary to ensure comprehensive safety measures are in place. The Executive Director will proactively engage with district and department leaders, principals, and school communities to develop safety priorities, define roles and responsibilities, and build capability within the organization. This involves creating systems of accountability to ensure that safe and secure school climates and workplace environments are maintained at all times. The Executive Director will also be responsible for assessing current safety protocols, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing best practices in safety management. This includes conducting regular safety audits, training staff on emergency preparedness, and fostering a culture of safety throughout the district. The position requires strong leadership skills, the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and a commitment to promoting a safe educational environment for all.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership for safety, critical incidents, and security programs across the school district.
• Set long-range goals and objectives aligned with the district's vision, mission, values, and strategic plans.
• Align existing safety efforts across various OUSD departments and schools.
• Collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and emergency responders as needed.
• Engage district and department leaders, principals, and school communities in developing safety priorities.
• Define roles and responsibilities related to safety and security.
• Build capability and create systems of accountability to ensure safe and secure school climates and workplace environments.
• Assess current safety protocols and identify areas for improvement.
• Conduct regular safety audits and training for staff on emergency preparedness.
• Foster a culture of safety throughout the district.

Requirements

• Proven experience in safety management or a related field, preferably within an educational setting.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse groups.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, policies, and best practices in school environments.
• Experience in crisis management and emergency response planning.
• Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions regarding safety initiatives.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with law enforcement and emergency response agencies.
• Familiarity with the George Floyd Resolution and its implications for school safety policies.
• Advanced degree in public safety, education administration, or a related field.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Retirement savings plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid holidays and vacation time
• Flexible scheduling options