Atlanta United Director of Security

Position Summary

The Atlanta United Director of Security is responsible for developing and implementing policies that ensure the safety/security of executives, coaches, players, and associates of Atlanta United Football Club, LLC (AUFC). This role oversees the physical security program, major investigations, and critical event response across all club locations. Responsibilities include conducting background investigations, preparing budgets, managing contract security staff, and supporting team security operations at home and away venues.

The Director serves as the primary liaison with federal, state, and local law enforcement and first responders, assisting in security management at high-profile events. This position works closely with team executives, player development staff, and MLS Security to ensure consistent protection and preparedness. The Director also supports both the Atlanta United Director of Soccer Operations and the AMBSE Vice President of Security, providing leadership in their absence.

General Role and Responsibilities

• Oversee all physical security operations at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Facility (CHOA Training Ground), including video surveillance and access control.
• Coordinate with security vendors to maintain and update physical security programs.
• Partner with AMBSE General Counsel and MLS Security on investigations and policy compliance.
• Conduct internal investigations related to theft, workplace violence, and other incidents in coordination with HR.
• Perform comprehensive background checks beyond open-source findings.
• Support AMBSE Security programs and align with broader organizational initiatives.
• Develop and maintain audit programs, vulnerability assessments, and training to promote security best practices.
• Disseminate relevant security intelligence and ensure the preparedness of staff.
• Lead and develop the Atlanta United Security Manager and oversee contract personnel.
• Manage travel security for matches, team trainings, and special events.
• Report deficiencies and recommend solutions to improve physical security.
• Maintain strong relationships with law enforcement and support safety for all Atlanta United programs.

Training Facility Responsibilities

• Maintain and update safety management plans for the training facility.
• Ensure the safety of players, coaches, and associates through patrols, camera monitoring, and incident reporting.
• Investigate and report unusual activity and resolve security issues on the property.
• Prepare and execute security operations plans for special events, home, and away matches.
• Conduct regular threat assessments and fire drills.
• Manage scheduling, briefing, and coordination of law enforcement and security personnel.
• Communicate regularly with the Atlanta United Director of Soccer Operations and AMBSE Vice President of Security.
• Coordinate with logistics personnel to ensure secure team movement.

Role on Atlanta United FC Matchdays (Home and Away)

• Develop team security plans for all home games, including hotel, transportation, and stadium operations.
• Coordinate with stadium security, law enforcement, MLS Security, and K-9 teams as needed.
• Manage relationships with game day staff and direct all contract and off-duty personnel.
• Oversee player and coach areas, ensuring secure environments at hotels, stadiums, and transport zones.
• Ensure all players and staff are accounted for post-game and facilitate safe departures.
• Support executives and coaches with post-game security and coordinate with TSA screeners and logistics staff.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• College degree preferred
• 5 to 10 years law enforcement and/or military experience
• NIMS Incident Command Certification preferred
• Experience in crowd management and crisis intervention
• Knowledge of Executive Protection techniques
• Background in sports and entertainment industry

Skill and Knowledge Requirements

• Professionalism
• Excellent time management, organizational and oral/written communication skills
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills with all levels of personnel
• Attention to detail in risk evaluation and vulnerability assessment
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Excellent judgment, objectivity, and self-control
• Independent thinker and decisive decision maker
• Ability to travel extensively, safeguard confidential information, and respond to incidents
• Flexible to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays
• Bi-lingual preferred

Physical Requirements

• Frequent walking, standing, and climbing stairs
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Maintain CPR certification
• Clean driving record required
• No felony or violent misdemeanor convictions