Executive Director of Emergency Management
Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, United States, 29631
Job Summary
WELCOME TO CLEMSON!
Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?
One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.
Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.
So, are you ready?
We are 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. 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, shaping 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 Clemson University is prepared for, responds to, recovers from, and mitigates emergencies and disasters that 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) ensures the safety and security of the Clemson University community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, encompassing law enforcement, fire, emergency management, and Tiger One technology systems. Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Management:
Establish strategic priorities and objectives for the Office of Emergency Management in alignment with Clemson Elevate and the Division of Finance and Operations; provide executive leadership for mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and continuity of operations; serve in a leadership capacity within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Incident Command System (ICS); oversee development, testing, and continuous improvement of emergency plans and protocols; lead after‑action reviews and institutional learning.
Compliance, Accreditation & Policy Oversight:
Direct public safety–related compliance functions; ensure alignment with federal, state, and local regulations and accreditation standards; serve as lead official for relevant public safety and emergency management accreditation processes; oversee policy development, review, and governance; identify, assess, and report on compliance and operational risks.
Public Safety Operations & Integration:
Provide strategic oversight and coordination across public safety operational functions; promote operational efficiencies and shared services; support the integration of public safety technologies and systems; promote consistent standards, roles, and expectations.
Training & Preparedness:
Oversee emergency preparedness training, tabletop exercises, drills, and functional exercises for public safety personnel and campus stakeholders; ensure training meets regulatory and best‑practice standards; collaborate with key University and partner entities to plan special events and enhance EM capabilities.
Governance & Collaboration:
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership; collaborate across divisions to ensure coordinated planning, communication, and response; prepare executive briefings, reports, and metrics related to readiness and compliance; provide leadership and mentorship for assigned staff.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in emergency management or a related field from an accredited institution.
Completion of IRC-100, IRC-200, IRC-300, IS-700, and IS-800 (likely referencing incident command certifications).
At least 7 years of progressive experience in Emergency Management or a related field, including at least 4 years of supervisory or management experience.
In‑depth knowledge of the Incident Command System (ICS).
Valid Class D driver’s license.
Preferred Requirements
Master’s degree in emergency management, public administration, or a related field.
10+ years of progressive experience in Emergency Management or a related field, with 5+ years in a supervisory role.
Knowledge of regulatory, accreditation, and compliance frameworks applicable to public safety and Emergency Management.
Professional certifications such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), Associate Emergency Manager (AEM), IRC-400, FEMA/ICS, EMAP‑related training, or Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP).
Job Knowledge Comprehensive Job Knowledge – comprehensive knowledge of theories and practices and ability to use them in complex, difficult, and/or unprecedented situations.
Supervisory Responsibilities Manages Work of Others – manages work of others including hiring, terminating, training, developing, reviewing performance, and administering corrective action for staff; plans organizational structure and job content.
Budgetary Responsibilities Monitors Budget – does not provide input but is responsible for monitoring the departmental budget and may oversee fund allocation.
Physical Requirements
30% – Stand for prolonged period
30% – Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period
15% – Walk or move about
10% – Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc.
5% – Ascend or descend (e.g., stairs, ladder)
5% – Position self to accomplish task (e.g., stoop, kneel, crawl)
70% – Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself
10% – Recognize or inspect visually
5% – Move, transport, raise or lower
5% – Extend hands or arms in any direction
15% – Perceive, observe, clarity of vision
Working Conditions
15% – Exposure to heat or cold
5% – Exposure to dust/fumes
15% – Wet or humid
5% – Chemical hazards
5% – Electrical hazards
5% – Radiant energy hazards
10% – Overnight Travel
5% – Exposure to bio‑hazards (e.g., blood, bodily fluids)
Work Schedule Standard Hrs: 37.5
Compensation Information Anticipated Salary Range:
$120,000 - $146,000
Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate’s previous experience, knowledge, skills, and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.
Essential Personnel Level Essential Level 1 employee – required to respond during an emergency closure or modified operations to provide the University’s initial response to the emergency situation, including the execution of mission essential functions. Some positions in this category may be required to work remotely or be on‑call.
Job Location Clemson, SC
How to Apply Applications and nominations will be accepted until a new Executive Director of Emergency Management is selected. Interested parties must apply electronically via Interfolio and submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for five references by February 27, 2026 to assure full consideration.
For nominations or questions regarding this position, please email Brennan Ledford, Executive Talent Partner at bnhaski@clemson.edu.
Military and Veteran Military Equivalency: Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.
Veteran Preference: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions. State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full‑time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job’s minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD‑214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources. To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email hrjob@clemson.edu upon submission of your application.
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We are 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. 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, shaping 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 Clemson University is prepared for, responds to, recovers from, and mitigates emergencies and disasters that 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) ensures the safety and security of the Clemson University community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, encompassing law enforcement, fire, emergency management, and Tiger One technology systems. Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Management:
Establish strategic priorities and objectives for the Office of Emergency Management in alignment with Clemson Elevate and the Division of Finance and Operations; provide executive leadership for mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and continuity of operations; serve in a leadership capacity within the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Incident Command System (ICS); oversee development, testing, and continuous improvement of emergency plans and protocols; lead after‑action reviews and institutional learning.
Compliance, Accreditation & Policy Oversight:
Direct public safety–related compliance functions; ensure alignment with federal, state, and local regulations and accreditation standards; serve as lead official for relevant public safety and emergency management accreditation processes; oversee policy development, review, and governance; identify, assess, and report on compliance and operational risks.
Public Safety Operations & Integration:
Provide strategic oversight and coordination across public safety operational functions; promote operational efficiencies and shared services; support the integration of public safety technologies and systems; promote consistent standards, roles, and expectations.
Training & Preparedness:
Oversee emergency preparedness training, tabletop exercises, drills, and functional exercises for public safety personnel and campus stakeholders; ensure training meets regulatory and best‑practice standards; collaborate with key University and partner entities to plan special events and enhance EM capabilities.
Governance & Collaboration:
Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership; collaborate across divisions to ensure coordinated planning, communication, and response; prepare executive briefings, reports, and metrics related to readiness and compliance; provide leadership and mentorship for assigned staff.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in emergency management or a related field from an accredited institution.
Completion of IRC-100, IRC-200, IRC-300, IS-700, and IS-800 (likely referencing incident command certifications).
At least 7 years of progressive experience in Emergency Management or a related field, including at least 4 years of supervisory or management experience.
In‑depth knowledge of the Incident Command System (ICS).
Valid Class D driver’s license.
Preferred Requirements
Master’s degree in emergency management, public administration, or a related field.
10+ years of progressive experience in Emergency Management or a related field, with 5+ years in a supervisory role.
Knowledge of regulatory, accreditation, and compliance frameworks applicable to public safety and Emergency Management.
Professional certifications such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), Associate Emergency Manager (AEM), IRC-400, FEMA/ICS, EMAP‑related training, or Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP).
Job Knowledge Comprehensive Job Knowledge – comprehensive knowledge of theories and practices and ability to use them in complex, difficult, and/or unprecedented situations.
Supervisory Responsibilities Manages Work of Others – manages work of others including hiring, terminating, training, developing, reviewing performance, and administering corrective action for staff; plans organizational structure and job content.
Budgetary Responsibilities Monitors Budget – does not provide input but is responsible for monitoring the departmental budget and may oversee fund allocation.
Physical Requirements
30% – Stand for prolonged period
30% – Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period
15% – Walk or move about
10% – Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc.
5% – Ascend or descend (e.g., stairs, ladder)
5% – Position self to accomplish task (e.g., stoop, kneel, crawl)
70% – Communicate, converse, give direction, express oneself
10% – Recognize or inspect visually
5% – Move, transport, raise or lower
5% – Extend hands or arms in any direction
15% – Perceive, observe, clarity of vision
Working Conditions
15% – Exposure to heat or cold
5% – Exposure to dust/fumes
15% – Wet or humid
5% – Chemical hazards
5% – Electrical hazards
5% – Radiant energy hazards
10% – Overnight Travel
5% – Exposure to bio‑hazards (e.g., blood, bodily fluids)
Work Schedule Standard Hrs: 37.5
Compensation Information Anticipated Salary Range:
$120,000 - $146,000
Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate’s previous experience, knowledge, skills, and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.
Essential Personnel Level Essential Level 1 employee – required to respond during an emergency closure or modified operations to provide the University’s initial response to the emergency situation, including the execution of mission essential functions. Some positions in this category may be required to work remotely or be on‑call.
Job Location Clemson, SC
How to Apply Applications and nominations will be accepted until a new Executive Director of Emergency Management is selected. Interested parties must apply electronically via Interfolio and submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for five references by February 27, 2026 to assure full consideration.
For nominations or questions regarding this position, please email Brennan Ledford, Executive Talent Partner at bnhaski@clemson.edu.
Military and Veteran Military Equivalency: Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.
Veteran Preference: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions. State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full‑time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job’s minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD‑214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources. To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email hrjob@clemson.edu upon submission of your application.
#J-18808-Ljbffr