Former NYPD officer becomes security operations manager

by TALLEY HENNING BROWN

The position of security operations manager, left vacant in March by the departure of 31-year university veteran Michael John, has been filled by Michael J. Murphy, former lieutenant commander detective of the New York Police Department. Mr. Murphy, who directly oversees daily operations, personnel deployment and electronic surveillance systems on campus, began at Rockefeller University June 1.

Mr. Murphy entered the New York City Police Academy in 1987. He later studied psychology at Rockland County Community College and earlier this year received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Empire State College. From his first beat as patrol officer with the 52nd Precinct in the Bronx, Mr. Murphy was promoted to detective in 1995, sergeant in 1997, lieutenant in 2004 and lieutenant commander detective in 2008. He worked in various specialized units, including both the gang investigation unit and the internal affairs bureau, and has vast experience in managing large staff groups, conducting crime pattern analysis and acting as liaison to community groups. His final position with the NYPD was as commanding officer of the Central Park Precinct and 28th Precinct Detective Squads. He earned 32 commendations during his service, including a Commendation from the New York City Mayor and Police Commissioner last year for his role in the record-setting 21 percent decrease in overall crime in the 28th Precinct, which covers central Harlem.

“I met Mike on September 11, 2001, when he was assigned to assist me at the George Washington Bridge Command Post,” says Director of Security James Rogers. “I quickly learned that he is a conscientious and driven individual who knows how to get things done efficiently and effectively. He is a proven leader with exceptional investigative skills, but his greatest quality is his genuine concern for people. The departure of Michael John left a void that I am confident Michael ‘John’ Murphy can fill.”

Taking advantage of the NYPD’s 20-year retirement program, Mr. Murphy decided to shift his career into the private sector, where Rockefeller University is his first position. In addition to coordinating daily security operations and managing a staff of 35, Mr. Murphy is responsible for the university’s closed-circuit video surveillance system and oversees maintenance of the building access system, the ID-card scanners that secure building doors across campus. He is also Security’s point person for major events held on campus, including Convocation and awards ceremonies.
“After 21 years with the NYPD, I’m very happy to start the new phase of my career at Rockefeller. The people I’ve met here are friendly and very easy to work with; it’s great to be part of such an exceptional team,” says Mr. Murphy.