Novant Health names former police chief, public safety leader Kerr Putney as senior vice president and chief of protective services

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Novant Health has named Kerr Putney as senior vice president and chief of protective services. He began July 1. In this role, he will oversee all aspects of security, safety and protective services within the organization.

Building on a three-decade career in law enforcement and leadership, Putney has experience ensuring security and public safety in complex and highly dynamic environments. He also brings extensive policy development and policy reform experience on the local, state and federal levels.

“Kerr’s proven leadership and tireless efforts in support of the safety of the communities he has served make him a valuable addition to Novant Health,” said Kim Henderson, executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “We look forward to the fresh perspective and innovative solutions he will bring to enhance Novant Health’s robust security and public safety efforts.”  

Before becoming a respected public safety consultant, Putney served as Charlotte-Mecklenburg's chief of police from 2015 to 2020, where he led more than 2,000 sworn officers and was instrumental in strengthening the agency's philosophy of community policing. In addition to co-leading security planning for Charlotte's 2012 Democratic National Convention and 2020 Republican National Convention, Putney led the department through the COVID-19 pandemic, doubling down on training and strengthening internal and external communication to ensure the safety and wellness of the community.

Putney began his career in law enforcement as a sworn officer in 1992 and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master’s degree in criminal justice from East Carolina University.

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