Chief of Police

The City of Sycamore, Illinois is seeking an experienced and dynamic police leader to be their next chief of police. The city desires a visionary, progressive, forward-thinking leader who embraces the best practices of 21st Century Policing, along with a demonstrated commitment to community engagement and collaborative team building. The candidate must also have a history of ethical decision-making and effective management of complex organizations. This role requires an individual who values transparency, integrity, and accountability.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting salary range for the Chief of Police is $145,000 - $150,000. Placement will be based on qualifications and professional experience. The city provides a comprehensive and generous benefits package to include, but not limited to:

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Downstate Police Pension, if eligible
• Participation in the City of Sycamore’s 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Personal, Sick, and Executive)
• Reimbursement for educational expenses

Responsibilities

The Chief of Police oversees and directs all activities of the police department for the City of Sycamore. Responsibilities include planning for the use of resources, coordinating the activities of the department, and ensuring that services provided are of the highest quality.

Police department operational leadership responsibilities and duties include ensuring department employees are trained and deployed appropriately to protect the public, succession planning and the professional development of staff, overseeing labor-management relationships for both sworn and civilian employees, preparing the department to respond to emerging trends and issues in the community, as well as the law enforcement profession. The chief is responsible for leading 34 law enforcement officers, three full-time civilian employees, and 20+ part-time staff. The police department is organized into two divisions, Operations and Support Service, each led by a deputy chief.

Qualifications

Education: Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a closely related field; a master’s degree is preferred. Completion of an advanced leadership and management training program such as Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officers Course, PERF Senior Management Institute for Police, or FBI National Academy is desirable. Designation as a Certified Police Chief by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, or a similar program, is recommended.

Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in law enforcement as a certified officer, including at least five years of senior command-level supervisory experience, preferably as a Chief, Assistant Chief, or Deputy Chief.

Special Requirements: The position requires a valid Illinois Driver’s License and certification from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, or the ability to obtain certification within six months of appointment. Residency within the city limits is required within twelve (12) months of hire, with limited exceptions.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for Chief of Police in the City of Sycamore should demonstrate the following qualities and capabilities:

• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to plan, oversee, and manage the department's operations and activities effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, practices, and police administration, including organization and operational methods.
• The ability to build and maintain positive relationships with the residential, business, and educational communities, and to lead the department through active community engagement.
• Effectively collaborate with other city departments and external agencies.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, initiative, and the ability to make sound decisions on complex and challenging issues.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to deliver compelling public presentations and engage constructively with the media.
• Personal and professional integrity in all interactions with the public, elected officials, and city personnel.
• The ability to manage short- and long-term projects to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the department.
• The ability to engage in and promote open dialogue with employees on collective bargaining matters.
• Innovative thinking, with a focus on leveraging current technology, programs, and procedures to improve service delivery and support department staff.
• A strong understanding of fiscal management and the ability to effectively oversee and manage the department's budget.
• Availability to respond to emergencies at any time, 24/7, except during approved leave.

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