Description

The Chief of Police provides strategic leadership for the University Police Department, overseeing the safety and security of people and property across the campus. Reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, the Chief manages a department of approximately 45 permanent and part-time staff and oversees the departmental budget. The Chief is responsible for directing all areas of the department, including policy development, budget management, staffing, training, supervision, and evaluation, while maintaining a culture of professionalism, innovation, and continuous improvement.

As the University’s primary law enforcement leader, the Chief serves as Incident Commander for emergencies and special events, remains on call as required, and coordinates crisis and emergency response efforts. The Chief is a standing member of key committees and teams, including the Behavioral Assessment Team and Student Concern Response Team, and ensures effective law enforcement, crime prevention, and emergency communications across the campus.

The Chief also fosters strong relationships with the campus community—including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors—as well as with neighboring jurisdictions, regional public safety agencies, and the University of North Carolina System Office and constituent institutions. The role includes maintaining and expanding mutual aid agreements and promoting collaborative approaches to public safety for the benefit of the University and the surrounding region.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required for this Position:
Advanced knowledge of law enforcement operations, investigations, criminal law, and emergency response protocols.
Proven leadership and personnel management skills, including hiring, training, supervision, and performance evaluation.
Strong financial and administrative abilities, including budget development and resource management.
Expertise in community engagement, proactive policing, and building collaborative relationships across diverse constituencies.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to represent the University in crisis situations, on committees, and with external agencies.

Requirements

Western Carolina University seeks an experienced law enforcement leader to serve as Chief of Police, providing strategic oversight of the University Police Department and managing approximately 45 permanent and part-time staff. Reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, the Chief will direct all departmental operations, including policy development, budget management, staffing, training, and evaluation while maintaining a culture of professionalism and innovation. As the primary law enforcement leader, the Chief will serve as Incident Commander for emergencies and special events, coordinate crisis response efforts, and participate on key institutional committees. The successful candidate will build collaborative relationships with campus constituents, neighboring jurisdictions, and regional public safety agencies to advance comprehensive public safety initiatives. For more information or to apply, please visit https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/32944

WCU is an Equal Opportunity/ Access/ Affirmative Action/Pro Disabled & Veteran Employer.

LINK TO POSTING: https://jobs.wcu.edu/postings/32944