Police Chief

General Description

The City of Madison is seeking a collaborative and innovative professional to lead the Madison Police Department. This position requires responsible leadership, supervisory and professional work in planning, organizing and directing the programs and services of the Madison Police Department, and all related budgetary, staffing and administrative activities. The work is performed under the general direction of the mayor and in coordination with the Police and Fire Commission. The incumbent must exercise considerable judgment and discretion in meeting departmental objectives and have a commitment to racial equity and social justice aspects of serving the public. This is a unique opportunity for a strong, creative, and compassionate leader to guide the Madison Police Department. The chief of police is selected under state law by a board of five residents appointed to staggered 5-year terms by the mayor of the city, providing effective tenure to the chief, who can be removed only for cause.

Madison offers all the amenities of a large city without all the hassle. Not only is Madison the state capital and home to the state flagship university, but it is also a thriving city that invests in talent, research, jobs, and culture. Nestled between two lakes, with a total of five lakes within the city's vicinity, Madison is a naturally beautiful city with a variety of outdoor activities for every season. The city facilitates a range of cultural events year-round and takes advantage of its many parks for art, food, and musical festivals.

The Madison Police Department is an educated, diverse, community-oriented team of 492 commissioned officers and 92 non-sworn professionals charged with delivering quality police services that protect the rights of all people under the rule of law. The annual 2025 Operating Budget is about $98 million.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's (or higher level) degree; AND
• Five (5) years of responsible and varied leadership and managerial experience in local law enforcement at the command level; AND
• Ten (10) years of experience in a full-time law enforcement agency, including working with a labor union.

-OR-

• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position.

While not required, additional specialized leadership education, such as the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), the FBI National Academy, ad Accredited Public Manager program, or an advanced degree is desired.

If an applicant does not possess the specific requirements outlined above, HR will review the application materials to determine if the applicant possesses equivalent experience.

The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors. Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to effectively work with multicultural communities.

For a complete list of the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities, please see the class specification.

Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver's license.
• Ability to obtain certification as a police officer from the State of Wisconsin.
• Residency within 15 miles of the jurisdictional boundary is required within 60 days of hire. Residency within the City of Madison is preferred.

Department

Police Department

Opening Date

03/27/2025

Closing Date

4/27/2025 11:59 PM Central