Gloucester, MA – Chief of Police

• Extensive command‑level law enforcement experience in a municipal or similarly complex policing environment
• Sound professional judgment and the ability to make difficult decisions in high‑risk, high‑visibility situations
• A reputation for integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct
• Strong administrative, organizational, and fiscal management capabilities
• The ability to balance operational demands with strategic planning and long‑term organizational health
• Professional credibility with sworn and civilian personnel, municipal leadership, labor organizations, and community stakeholders

• Provide executive oversight and direction for all Police Department operations, including patrol, investigations, support services, records, dispatch coordination, and specialized units.
• Ensure effective deployment of personnel and resources to meet community needs and public safety priorities.
• Direct the development, implementation, and evaluation of department policies, procedures, and operational standards.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws; accreditation standards; consent decrees or agreements (if applicable); and recognized professional best practices.

• Maintain high standards of professional conduct, accountability, and performance throughout the department.
• Ensure fair, consistent, and transparent disciplinary processes in accordance with law, labor agreements, and established procedures.
• Promote a professional organizational culture that values procedural justice, ethical decision‑making, and public trust.

• Serve as the principal advisor to the Mayor on matters of public safety, crime trends, staffing, management, and departmental operations.
• Represent the Police Department to the City Council, municipal leadership, community organizations, regional partners, and state and federal agencies.
• Communicate effectively with the public and media on public safety issues, critical incidents, and departmental initiatives.

• Oversee the selection, evaluation, and professional development of command‑level and supervisory personnel.
• Promote fair and merit‑based advancement and training opportunities for sworn and civilian staff.
• Support ongoing professional development, in‑service training, and compliance‑based education across all ranks.
• Ensure continuity of operations through appropriate planning for retirements, promotions, and critical staffing transitions.

• Thorough knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, practices, and administration.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex police operations, personnel issues, and sensitive or high‑profile incidents.
• Strong understanding of police labor relations, collective bargaining environments, and applicable personnel law.
• Ability to analyze data, assess risk, and implement operational or policy adjustments as conditions evolve.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills suitable for executive reports, public presentations, and intergovernmental coordination.
• Financial acumen sufficient to manage departmental budgets, procurements, grants, and long‑term resource planning.

• 15 years or its equivalent experience in municipal, state, federal or military policing with at least five years or its equivalent in a progressively responsible law enforcement management position. 
• Experience leading a full‑service police department or major operational division is strongly preferred. 
• Master’s degree in police science or related field. Other educational backgrounds may be substituted for a graduate degree. 
• Graduation from a nationally recognized senior‑level law enforcement command or executive training program (e.g., FBI National Academy, PERF Senior Management Institute for Police, Southern Police Institute, or equivalent) is preferred.
• Certification or eligibility for certification as a police officer in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (or ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe) is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain valid Massachusetts driver’s license with a good driving record within 6 months of employment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain MA License to carry upon employment. 

• Salary range: $200,000 – $220,000 dependent upon qualifications.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, paid leave, and additional benefits consistent with executive municipal appointments.

1. A detailed resume
2. A cover letter outlining qualifications and interest in the position

Posted: 2026-05-05