The Empire State Building, the world's most famous office building, announced that it has hired Deputy Chief Lawrence F.P. Mannion, formerly the executive officer of the NYPD's School Safety Division, as their new director of security.
Mannion replaces Jesse Peterman, who has retired after a distinguished seven-year tenure with the Empire State Building.
In his new capacity, Mannion will direct the planning, implementation, and management of physical security in support of the core business at the Empire State Building. The position involves directing an in-house security contingent as well as a contract security detail. He will facilitate effective communication with other members of the Empire State Building Management Team, NYPD, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and direct the staff in the on-site management of the property during off hours.
He will also provide vital input to strategic planning, budgeting and decision-making. He will report to James T. Connors, general manager of the Empire State Building.
"Lawrence Mannion is one of the most respected and knowledgeable professionals in the law enforcement community, bar none" said Connors. "He is a leader and communicator and I am confident that his broad base of experience will make him a valued member of the Empire State Building team."
"I am extremely excited to work with the Empire State Building, one of New York City's and the world's most well-known, beloved icons,"Mannion said. "I am eager to help them further develop their very extensive security program, which is already one of the best in the City."
Mannion has had a lengthy and distinguished career with theNYPD. As the executive officer, School Safety Division of the NYPD from March, 2003 until his recent retirement, Deputy Chief Mannion was responsible for the safety of 1.1 million students in the NYC Public School System.
Previously, as an Inspector, he was the commanding officer, Housing Borough Manhattan, where he was responsible for all police servicesfor the residents of public housing in Manhattan.
He was a sergeant and a lieutenant in Central Harlem, Washington Heights, and the Narcotics Division. He also served as a detail Captain in Manhattan South.
As a lieutenant he was assigned to the Office of Management Analysis and Planning, the NYPD's "think tank" as a senior analyst.
Mannion holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Niagara University, aMaster of Public Administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, and is a graduate of the Columbia University School of Business Police Management Institute.
He served in the United States Army from 1969 until 1971. He was awarded an Honorable Discharge after a tour of duty in the Republic ofKorea.
