Safety and Security Officer

Core Responsibilities

• Provide enterprise leadership and hands-on management of the Bank's physical security, workplace safety, and emergency preparedness programs
• Oversees safety and security operations for all Bank facilities and remote locations statewide/region wide
• Manages internal security staff and vendors (guard services, access control, alarm, and video providers)
• Develops, coordinates, and delivers enterprise-wide and department-specific safety and security training programs to promote awareness, preparedness, and regulatory compliance
• Partners closely with Facilities, IT, HR, Operations, and Risk

Why Mercantile Bank?

Mercantile Bank was founded by entrepreneurs who believed building strong relationships and communities is accomplished through collaboration and innovation. It s more than being a financial institution, it s being a trusted ally and community partner. As Michigan's largest community bank, our roots are deeply embedded in the diverse communities we serve. Our commitment to our customers and community is at the core of all we do.

As an employee of Mercantile Bank, you will receive competitive compensation, bonus opportunities, and best-in-class benefit options. With a minimum of 3 weeks  vacation, sick time, 11 paid holidays, generous 401k match of 5%, company paid life insurance, tuition reimbursement, IVF and adoption assistance, zero-interest loans for fitness equipment and business attire, discounted bank services, employee stock purchase plan, 529 savings plans, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, legal protection, exceptional training and development opportunities, and encouragement to connect with community through volunteer opportunities.

As a Safety & Security Officer at Mercantile Bank, you will lead and manage critical safety and security operations that protect our team members, clients, and assets across all our facilities and remote locations. Your enterprise leadership will help develop and maintain a comprehensive physical security strategy that aligns with our mission and regulatory expectations. You will oversee internal security staff and external vendors, ensuring effective collaboration with departments such as IT, HR, and Operations.

Key responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, managing the safety and security budget, and implementing advanced technologies to enhance our systems. Furthermore, you ll coordinate emergency preparedness and crisis management initiatives, providing essential training and awareness campaigns that foster a culture of accountability and preparedness. This dynamic role is vital for nurturing a secure environment and advancing a proactive approach to workplace safety within the bank.

To excel as a Safety & Security Officer at Mercantile Bank, candidates must possess a robust background in physical security and safety leadership, ideally with over 10 years of experience in the banking or financial services sector. Proficiency in managing access control systems, alarms, and video surveillance platforms is critical, alongside strong vendor management and project management skills. Effective communication-both verbal and written-is essential for coordinating with public safety agencies and leading during incidents.

Organizational skills and attention to detail are necessary to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.

Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to make informed decisions that consider all stakeholders involved. An advanced degree or relevant certifications such as CPP, PSP, or CHPA will be advantageous, along with familiarity with regulations like FFIEC guidance and OSHA requirements. This blend of skills will ensure success in upholding the bank s safety and security initiatives.

• 10+ years of progressive physical security/safety leadership (preferably in banking or financial services with multi-site responsibility)
• Demonstrated experience with access control alarms, video platforms, and guard force management
• Strong leadership, vendor management, and project management skills
• Proven ability to lead during incidents and to coordinate with public safety agencies
• Efficient and effective communication skills (verbal and written)
• High attention to detail and organization skills
• Prioritize tasks and delegate them when appropriate
• Function well in a fast-paced and at times stressful environment
• Ability to make decisions considering all stakeholders

• Advanced degree or relevant certifications (CPP, PSP, CBCP, CHPA or equivalent)
• Experience integrating physical security with business continuity and crisis communications
• Familiarity with FFIEC guidance, OSHA requirements and state banking safety expectations