Chief of Police- Fresno (CA) Police Department Job at Police Executive Research

A NATIONAL SEARCH is underway for a new Chief of Police

CHIEF OF POLICE

The City of Fresno is conducting a national search to attract a strategic, community-focused, and experienced police executive with advanced leadership skills to serve as its next Chief of Police. This recruitment comes at a pivotal time for Fresno and offers an exciting opportunity for a seasoned leader committed to enhancing public safety, fostering trust, and building strong relationships with the community and department. The next Chief of Police will be tasked with guiding a diverse department, advancing modern policing techniques, and working collaboratively with city leadership to improve the safety and quality of life for all.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The City of Fresno is a major U.S. city and the fifth most populous in California, with more than 546,000 residents. As a commercial and cultural hub of the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno boasts a thriving economy and a growing arts scene, adding unique charm and opportunity. Serving as the financial, industrial, trade, and commercial capital of the central San Joaquin Valley, Fresno is strategically positioned, with easy travel to other major California metropolitan areas—approximately four hours north of the Los Angeles basin and three hours south of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Fresno offers quick access to Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks, making weekend adventures a regular part of life. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, residents and visitors alike enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to boating, hiking, and golfing throughout the year.

Fresno offers quality, affordable housing compared to other large California cities and provides excellent educational opportunities through four large school districts and a variety of private institutions. The city’s multicultural fabric includes vibrant Latino, Punjabi, and Hmong communities, who enrich Fresno’s environment with festivals, arts, and cuisines from around the world.

CITY GOVERNMENT AND GOVERNANCE

Incorporated in 1885, Fresno is a full-service city with approximately 4,000 employees operating under a “Strong Mayor” form of government. The Mayor, elected every four years in a citywide election, serves as the Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for providing leadership and the efficient administration of all City Affairs. The Mayor appoints the City Manager, who supervises city departments and implements policies.

The Fresno City Council, consisting of seven elected members, establishes policy and legislates on various issues affecting the community. The Council appoints the City Attorney and City Clerk, while the City Manager appoints all department heads. The Chief of Police reports to the City Manager and collaborates with the Mayor, City Council, and community stakeholders to ensure police services align with the city’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective public safety.

THE POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Fresno Police Department (FPD) is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the community by reducing crime-related fear and working alongside residents to ensure their voices are heard and valued. With a 2025 budget of $284 million, the FPD has an authorized staff allocation of 926 sworn officers and 404 civilian employees, providing core services through the Office of the Chief of Police and four Bureaus, each led by a Deputy Police Chief.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate for Chief of Police will be a visionary leader dedicated to community-oriented policing, collaboration, and innovative problem-solving. The Chief will demonstrate strong communication skills, cultural competence, and an understanding of modern policing practices that prioritize public trust, equity, and transparency.

The next Chief of Police for Fresno will be expected to:

1. Advance Public Safety Initiatives
2. Focus on Accountability and Transparency
3. Enhance Community Engagement
4. Prioritize Innovation and Technology
5. Enhance Officer Wellness and Development
6. Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

QUALIFYING CRITERIA

Any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, police science, public administration, or a closely related field and ten years of increasingly responsible law enforcement experience, including management experience preferably in a large metropolitan police department of similar complexity is qualifying.

A master’s degree in criminal justice, political science, public administration, or a related field, an Executive Level Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) Certificate, and completion of programs like the FBI Academy, Police Executive Leadership Institute (PELI), or Senior Management Institute for Policing are highly desirable.

Possession of a valid California Driver’s License is required for the entire employment period in this job class, along with a Management (POST) certificate (or equivalent from another state) or the ability to obtain one within a reasonable time.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The annual salary range for this at-will position is $196,188 to $291,900. Placement within the range will be based on qualifications. The city provides an excellent array of information on employee benefits.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Candidates are encouraged to apply immediately for optimal consideration by emailing a comprehensive resume, compelling cover letter, and list of professional references to apply@publicsectorsearch.com. Candidates should apply by January 3, 2025. This position will be considered open until a final selection is made.

Confidential inquiries and questions regarding this career opportunity should be directed to Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc. at (916) 789-9990.