Chief of Police - City of Spartanburg, SC

The City of Spartanburg, South Carolina, is seeking a strategic, community-oriented, and forward-thinking executive to serve as its next Chief of Police during a transformative period for the city and department. This is an opportunity to lead a respected department with a strong foundation, supportive local leadership, and positive community relationships while helping shape the future of public safety in one of South Carolina's fastest-growing and most dynamic cities.

The ideal candidate is a confident advocate who successfully communicates and champions for their employees and department, effectively enforces accountability, and upholds professionalism. In their next Chief, City leaders desire a credible law enforcement professional who has demonstrated successful experience with and the desire to strengthen partnerships with City Council, community leaders, and regional agencies.

The next Chief will inherit a department with many strengths, including a dedicated workforce, strong community support, supportive City leadership, and a positive reputation. Spartanburg's Chief will have the opportunity to make a big difference – guiding strategic improvements in structure, leadership development, and technology. A thoughtful, adaptive leadership approach is desired to help the department and city navigate increased pressure from rapid population growth, increasing service demands, staffing shortages, and community public safety challenges such as youth violence, homelessness, and mental health-related calls. The next Chief is highly skilled in balancing strategic planning to address complex public safety challenges while prioritizing and maintaining strong community relationships and public trust.

Higher education plays a major role in the city's identity and continued growth. Wofford College, Converse University, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Carolinas Campus, University of South Carolina Upstate, and Spartanburg Community College all maintain a strong presence in or near downtown and contribute significantly to the city's economic activity, workforce development, arts and cultural offerings, and overall vibrancy.