Chief of Police

The City of Battle Creek is conducting a national search for an experienced, progressive, and highly accomplished law enforcement executive to serve as its next Chief of Police. This is a compelling opportunity to lead a respected municipal police organization that has achieved significant progress in reducing violent crime, strengthening community partnerships, and incorporating technology and contemporary policing strategies into its operations. Battle Creek is a diverse and historic southwest Michigan community of approximately 53,000 residents encompassing 44 square miles and located along the I-94 corridor between Detroit and Chicago. The Battle Creek Police Department provides comprehensive police services to Battle Creek and contractual services to Bedford Township. The Department has an authorized strength of approximately 119 sworn positions and currently employs approximately 112 sworn personnel, including recruits, along with approximately 18 civilian employees. BCPD’s capabilities include Patrol/Operations, Investigations, gang and drug enforcement, K-9, drone operations, an Emergency Response Team, victim advocacy, crisis intervention resources, forensic services, and regional intelligence partnerships. The Department continues to invest in community policing, technology, data-informed deployment, and development of a Drone as First Responder program. Operating under a Council-Manager form of government, the Chief reports to the City Manager and serves as a key member of the City’s executive leadership team. The successful candidate will be an approachable, engaged, collaborative, and decisive executive with strong operational credibility, sound judgment, exceptional communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to develop people. Priorities include sustaining reductions in serious violent crime, developing the next generation of BCPD leaders, strengthening community trust, advancing constitutional policing, managing resources responsibly, and maintaining productive labor and organizational partnerships. The City offers a competitive starting salary up to $154,000, commensurate with qualifications, experience, and professional accomplishments, together with a comprehensive benefits package. The position remains open until a final selection is made, with optimal consideration given to candidates who apply by October 23, 2026, when the initial review of candidates will be conducted.