Executive Director of Emergency Management

Description

Clemson University is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to serve as Executive Director of Emergency Management. This pivotal role provides strategic leadership and enterprise oversight for the University’s emergency management program and coordinated public safety operations. This role is responsible for ensuring institutional preparedness, regulatory and accreditation compliance, and effective integration across public safety units.

The Executive Director will lead the development and execution of emergency planning, risk reduction, and community preparedness efforts in alignment with Clemson Elevate and the University's broader operational goals. This is a unique opportunity to shape Clemson’s emergency readiness and response posture, while building strong internal and external partnerships that enhance safety and continuity.

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is a branch of Clemson University’s Department of Public Safety within the Division of Finance and Operations. OEM ensures that Clemson University is able to prepare for, respond to, recover from and mitigate against emergencies and disasters that would affect the health, safety and lives of those who live, work and study at and around the University. For more information on OEM, visit the website.

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the Clemson University community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The department encompasses various units, including law enforcement, fire, and emergency management and Tiger One involving safety technology systems. DPS plays a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all members of the University community, contributing to the overall well-being and success of Clemson University. For more information on Clemson’s DPS, visit the website.

Responsibilities include,

Strategic Leadership & Management: Establishes strategic priorities and objectives for the Office of Emergency Management (EM) in alignment with Clemson Elevate and the Division of Finance and Operations. Provide executive leadership for the University’s emergency management program, including mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and continuity of operations. Serve in a leadership capacity within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Incident Command System (ICS), including coordination during incidents, emergencies, and large-scale events. Oversee the development, maintenance, testing, and continuous improvement of emergency plans, continuity plans, and crisis management protocols.  Lead after-action reviews, corrective action planning, and institutional learning following incidents and exercises.

Compliance, Accreditation & Policy Oversight: Direct public safety–related compliance functions, ensuring alignment with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, accreditation standards, and institutional policies.  Serve as the lead or coordinating official for relevant public safety, emergency management, and institutional accreditation or certification processes. Oversee policy development, review, and governance to ensure consistency, clarity, and coordination across units. Identify, assess, and report on compliance and operational risks, and support corrective actions as needed.

Public Safety Operations & Integration: Provide strategic oversight and coordination across public safety operational functions, ensuring alignment between emergency management, law enforcement, security, and related units. Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies, shared services, and improved coordination across Public Safety. Support the integration and governance of public safety technologies, systems, and operational protocols in collaboration with appropriate stakeholders. Promote consistent standards, roles, and expectations across Public Safety operations.

Training & Preparedness: Oversee emergency preparedness training, tabletop exercises, drills, and functional exercises for public safety personnel and campus stakeholders. Ensure training and exercise programs meet regulatory, accreditation, and best-practice standards. Promote campus-wide preparedness, awareness, and readiness initiatives. Collaborates with key University and partner entities to plan for special events, manage Critical Infrastructure projects, and enhance technology to strengthen EM capabilities.

Governance & Co