A recently named five-member search committee hopes to select “three-to-five” finalists for the now-vacant director of Public Safety position by Nov. 1.

That’s according to UTM Director of Business Affairs and search committee chair Joe Croom, who said the committee has already met twice since being named last week.

The committee also comprises Public Safety Lt. Steve Sherfield, Student Conduct Officer Vishenia Huery, Safety Officer Ted Council and Martin Police Department Chief David Moore.

Croom said the committee has launched a Southeast regional search, and has already placed print advertisements with major newspapers in Memphis and Nashville, as well as in regional trade publications. Additionally, UTM has listed the opening with the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police.

After reviewing applications and conducting interviews as necessary, the committee will make three-to-five recommendations to Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Al Hooten, who will make the final hiring decision.

And Croom said the decision will hopefully come sooner rather than later.

“We’re wanting to move quickly,” Croom said. “We’d like to get through this and make an offer soon.”

Croom added it is difficult to gauge how many applications the committee will receive, but he predicts around 70 applications, based on previous searches he has overseen.

“I expect to have lots of candidates. So far I’ve received one e-mail from someone interested, but haven’t gotten any official applications in,” he said.

The application deadline is Oct. 13.

While the committee has yet to decide the most desired traits in an applicant, the official job listing requires at least a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, public administration or related field, with a minimum five years of experience in law enforcement supervision and certification by the Tennessee Peace Officer’s Standards and Training Commission, with a master’s degree and university law enforcement supervision experience preferred. Salary is to be commensurate with education and experience, Croom said.

The previous director, Rick Hatler, resigned Aug. 31 after having a sexual relationship with a female Public Safety police officer. Capt. Ray Coleman is currently serving as the department’s interim director. Coleman has yet to apply for the position on a permanent basis.

The director of Public Safety oversees a department of about 70 employees, including 11 commissioned police officers.