Job Description / Duties

THE OPPORTUNITY
As the Deputy Chief of Police, reporting to the Chief of Police, you will be working alongside the Chief and the Executive Team to develop and deliver on the strategy in support of the overall vision, mission and values. You will oversee the Operational Services and the Investigative and Support Services divisions encompassing both sworn officers, professional staff and community peace officers.

You are a forward-thinking leader that is looking for continuous improvement and transformation for the betterment of the Service and community. You understand the value in fostering partnerships with stakeholders and community organizations, recognizing the impact of collaboration in influencing positive change. You are an experienced leader who has managed human, financial and capital assets and who understands balancing the day-to-day operations with the goals and priorities of the community.

You have a thorough understanding of the challenges facing modern policing, a strong business acumen, and the ability to implement creative but practical solutions to the challenges of a growing community. You utilize innovative thinking to reduce crime and improve public safety, and you bring emotional intelligence into a workplace that prioritizes wellness and inclusivity. Your extensive experience in policing leadership and operations, along with the experience of being a sworn police officer, will inspire the next generation of leaders.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership:
• Collaborate with the Chief of Police and Executive Team in setting organizational vision, goals, and strategic priorities.
• Assist in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and initiatives to achieve organizational objectives.
• Provide leadership in the absence of the Chief of Police and act as a liaison with external stakeholders.

Operational Oversight:
• Oversee the daily operations of assigned divisions or units within the organization.
• Ensure effective deployment of personnel and resources to optimize service delivery and public safety outcomes.
• Monitor and evaluate operational performance through data analysis and performance metrics.

Community Engagement:
• Foster positive relationships with community stakeholders, government agencies, and local organizations.
• Represent the organization at community events, public meetings, and media interactions.
• Promote community-oriented policing strategies to enhance public trust and collaboration.
Resource Management:
• Manage human, financial, and technological resources effectively and efficiently.
• Develop and administer departmental budgets, grants, and funding allocations.
• Oversee the maintenance and procurement of equipment and technology necessary for operations.

Policy Development and Compliance:
• Ensure organizational policies and procedures comply with legal standards and regulatory requirements.
• Recommend revisions or updates to policies based on emerging trends, best practices, and community feedback.
• Uphold ethical standards and promote a culture of integrity and accountability within the organization.

Leadership and Development:
• Mentor and develop personnel, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the organization and the community.
• Lead by example, demonstrating commitment to the organization’s mission, values, and code of conduct.

FIRST YEAR – MEASURES OF SUCCESS
• Develop processes reliant on data and analysis to support frontline operations in the effective deployment of resources.
• Gain an understanding of the organizational culture and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Evaluate the overall structure, efficiency and effectiveness of the areas of responsibility and set performance metrics and goals for Divisional Inspectors.
• Develop relationships with community stakeholders and identify opportunities for partnerships.

Qualifications / Required Skills

Given the pivotal role this individual will be expected to play in achieving the strategic objectives of the service and in supporting its success, it is essential that the successful candidate possess the following core competencies, experience, and attributes:

Education
• A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, public administration, or a related field is preferred.
• A master’s degree in a relevant field such as public administration, criminology, or business administration would be considered an asset.
• Must be a sworn officer or can be re-sworn as an officer.

Experience
• Minimum 15 years of progressive law enforcement experience, with significant experience at the Inspector level or above within a Canadian police service.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in overseeing complex operations, strategic planning, and resource management within a law enforcement agency.
• Proven track record of fostering positive relationships with diverse communities, stakeholders, and government agencies to promote community safety and well-being.
• Experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures in accordance with legal standards, best practices, and community needs.
• Ability to make effective decisions under pressure, manage crisis situations, and adapt strategies to changing circumstances while upholding ethical standards and organizational values.
• Track record of leading innovative initiatives and strategic programs to address emerging challenges in law enforcement and community safety.
• Experience in mentoring and developing personnel, promoting a culture of continuous learning, diversity, equity, and inclusion within the organization.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders, external partners, and the broader community.

Competencies and Knowledge
Leadership: Ability to inspire and motivate others, lead by example, and effectively manage teams and resources within a law enforcement agency.

Strategic Thinking: Capacity to develop and implement long-term goals and strategies that align with the organization’s mission and adapt to evolving community needs and challenges.

Ethical Decision Making: Skill in making sound, ethical decisions under pressure, considering diverse perspectives, and upholding legal standards and organizational policies.

Community Engagement: Proficiency in building and maintaining positive relationships with diverse communities, stakeholders, and government agencies to enhance public trust and collaboration.

Crisis Management: Capability to manage crisis situations effectively, make informed decisions swiftly, and ensure the safety and well-being of the community and staff.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to articulate organizations goals, policies, and initiatives effectively to internal and external stakeholders, and to foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

Personal Profile
• Fair and equitable leader.
• Open to explaining the “why”.
• Diplomatic.
• Driven.
• Self-starter.
• Highly accountable.
• High ethical standards.
• A positive attitude when faced with adversarial situations.
• Collaborative.
• Innovative.
• Critical thinker with problem solving skills.
• Exhibits sound judgment.

Additional Information

HOW TO APPLY
This position is being managed by ProFound Talent Inc, an executive search firm. For the opportunity to join Medicine Hat Police Service in the role of Deputy Chief of Police, please email your resume to DreamBig@profoundtalent.com referencing Position ID # AWQX-682283.

For further information on ProFound Talent Inc. please visit: www.profoundtalent.com

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
ProFound Talent is a woman owned and operated business, recognized and certified by Women Business Enterprise (WBE). We pride ourselves in supporting equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives in our recruitment processes and in our work environment, where every individual feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals to which you may confidentially share your accommodation needs at time of application. We will adjust our processes to ensure you have an inclusive, fair, and respectful experience that allows you to represent yourself in your unique and most authentic way.

* We thank all applicants for your submissions, however only candidates being considered for this role will be contacted. *

Contact Information

Should you have an inquiry regarding this position, please contact Terri Davis, Founder & Executive Search Partner at 587-200-0114 ext. 101 or email at tdavis@profoundtalent.com.

Employer Profile

The Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1899, making it one of the oldest municipal police forces in Alberta, Canada. Over the years, the MHPS has evolved into a modern law enforcement agency, with an authorized strength of 113 police officers, 32 professional staff and seven community peace officers, dedicated to serving and protecting the community of Medicine Hat. With a strong commitment to community policing, the MHPS fosters a collaborative relationship with residents, focusing on crime prevention, public safety, and building trust. The organization is known for its proactive approach, innovative crime-solving techniques, and support for community programs that address social issues. Joining the MHPS offers the opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team that values professional growth, community engagement, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in one of Alberta's vibrant and close-knit communities.

The MHPS has four key strategic priorities that guide their operations and strategic direction. These priorities are:

1. Community Safety: Emphasizing a focus on effective reactive and proactive approaches to crime prevention and public safety, the MHPS aims to create a safe environment for all residents through various initiatives and programs.

2. Community Engagement: Prioritizing the importance of building strong relationships with community members, members are encouraged to actively participate in community events and support local initiatives to foster trust and cooperation and enhance collaboration and mutual respect.

3. Investment in Human Resources and Technology: Focusing on enhancing the ability to provide high quality customer service to the community to maintain overall satisfaction, trust and confidence in the MHPS.

4. Organizational Wellness: Recognizing the importance of a healthy work environment, the MHPS is committed to the well-being of its staff with programs and services to support mental health, professional development, and a respectful workplace culture.

The core values of the MHPS are fundamental principles that guide their actions and decisions. Their values are:

1. Integrity: Emphasizing honesty and ethical behavior in all interactions officers and staff are expected to maintain high moral standards, ensuring trust and transparency in their service to the community.

2. Respect: Through acknowledging, accepting, and valuing oneself and others, the MHPS promotes a culture of mutual respect, both within the organization and towards the community, fostering a positive and inclusive environment.

3. Courage: Upholding the importance of doing the right thing, even in the face of adversity, the MHPS encourages staff to stand up for what is just, make difficult decisions, and confront challenges head-on.

4. Accountability: Accepting responsibility for actions is a key aspect of MHPS’s operations. Officers and staff are held accountable for their conduct, ensuring that they uphold the law and the values of the organization in every situation.

For more information on the Medicine Hat Police Service, please visit their website at https://mhps.ca/. Video clips with additional information on the MHPS can be found at https://www.mhps.ca/videos/page.