Note: This position will close on January 14, 2024. Must apply on RVA.gov
Description
The Chief of Staff for the Richmond Police Department is a key executive leader responsible for managing operations, driving strategic initiatives, and providing critical support to the Chief of Police. The position serves as a trusted advisor, facilitator, and intermediary across diverse internal and external stakeholders. It encompasses administrative oversight, community engagement, and the implementation of RPD's public safety goals and priorities.
This role demands adaptability to high-stress environments and the capacity to address sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion. It plays a pivotal role in supporting the Richmond Police Department’s mission to enhance public safety, uphold justice, and strengthen community trust.
This is a non-sworn, professional staff position
Duties include but are not limited to
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and oversee departmental strategies and initiatives to align with RPD’s mission and goals.
- Manage long-term projects, including resource planning, policy development, and implementation of innovative public safety strategies.
- Serve as a member of the Chief’s Executive Command Staff, contributing to organizational development and strategic planning.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the Chief of Police’s representative at community events, public forums, and council meetings.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with diverse community groups, local government entities, and other public safety agencies.
- Lead initiatives aimed at enhancing trust and collaboration between the RPD and the Richmond community.
Advisory Role to Chief of Police
- Provide insights and recommendations on policy matters, operational challenges, and community concerns.
- Represent the Chief in legal and public policy discussions, collaborating with city officials, union representatives, and other stakeholders.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support special projects or assignments as directed by the Chief of Police.
This is an unclassified position and serves at the will of the Appointing Authority
(Chief of Police)
Successful completion of an interview and thorough background investigation is required. Please note that the Police Department background process may take up to 45-60 days. An applicant disqualified from the Police background process may reapply a year after disqualification.
Qualifications, Special Certifications and Licenses
Minimum Education and Experience:
- A Bachelor’s degree
- 8+ years of leadership experience in the private sector, public safety or governmental operations, including supervisory roles.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree
- Experience with law enforcement operations, community engagement strategies, and public policy development.
- Proven success in managing budgets, strategic planning, and operational execution within a complex organization.
- Proven experience in managing community relations.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, both orally and in writing.
- Comprehensive understanding of public safety protocols, union agreements, and community engagement best practices.
- Skilled in conflict resolution, negotiation, and fostering positive interagency collaborations.
- Familiarity with preparing, writing, and reviewing reports.
- Ability to plan, direct, coordinate, and evaluate departmental operations.
Must be flexible to work evenings, weekends, and respond to critical incidents outside standard business hours.
