"Chief of Police"

Grand Valley State University, one of the largest public institutions in Michigan, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for its chief of police. This is an on-site leadership role.

Grand Valley State University was chartered by the Michigan legislature in 1960 in response to the need for a public, four-year college in the state's second-largest metropolitan region. More than 22,000 students have chosen to study at Grand Valley. The university has built some of the newest living centers in the state to help students achieve their goals safely, comfortably, and as part of a connected community.

Reporting to the vice president for finance and administration, the chief of police (COP) serves as the chief law enforcement officer for the university and works closely with all university departments. This position is ultimately responsible for every facet of the operation of the police department and law enforcement action within their jurisdiction. This role ensures that the department is adequately staffed, equipped, trained, and disciplined for the detection, prevention, and suppression of crime and the equitable enforcement of all county, city, state, and federal laws within their jurisdiction while conforming to all applicable rules regulating the operation of the police department and law enforcement activities. The COP oversees a staff of 42 and manages a budget of 4.2M.

Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field and at least ten years of progressively responsible management experience in law enforcement. The successful candidate must have the ability to obtain certification as required by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. Other required knowledge, skills, and abilities include excellent communication and change management skills; a proven and demonstrated track record of working effectively in a culturally and ethnically diverse community; strong oral and written communication skills; strong community outreach skills; ability to develop and implement a budget and operate a police department within established budgetary constraints; high level of critical and analytical thinking skills; and knowledge and expert level of skill in using firearms and other essential equipment. Preferred qualifications include a master's degree in criminal justice or a related field and executive-level training through the FBI National Academy, SMIP, NEI, or other recognized executive command programs.

Application and Nomination
Grand Valley State University has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. The review of applications will begin on May 2, 2025, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/chief-of-police/.

Contact Laura Puckett-Boler at lpb@spelmanjohnson.com for confidential inquiries and salary information. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com.

Visit the Grand Valley State University website at https://www.gvsu.edu/.