Police Chief

Town of Wrightsville Beach•Wrightsville Beach, NC

1d•$106,230 - $172,546

About The Position

The Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, seeks an experienced law enforcement leader to serve as its Police Chief. The Chief will shape public safety strategy for officers, residents, and businesses; maintain effective relationships; remain visible and engaged in the community; invest in employees; and uphold professional, accountable, community policing. Wrightsville Beach is a coastal community with seasonal increases in population and public safety demands. The Chief will balance the needs of year-round residents and visitors while addressing coastal public safety challenges, promoting proactive community policing, and fostering trust through consistent community engagement. The Police Department has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies since 2015. Working with the Town Manager, the Chief will provide strategic direction for the Police Department and align departmental priorities with community needs. The role includes guiding staffing, training, equipment, and budget decisions; developing and supporting personnel; strengthening recruitment, retention, and accountability; and establishing a vision and culture of professionalism, collaboration, transparency, and service.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Administration, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field, with at least five years of progressively responsible law enforcement administration or command experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties.
North Carolina law enforcement officer certification, or eligibility to obtain the required certification within the period established by the hiring municipality and the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.
Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a valid North Carolina driver’s license as required by the municipality.
Considerable progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including substantial command, management, or administrative experience involving personnel, operations, budgeting, and organizational leadership.
Thorough knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, investigative methods, crime prevention, emergency management, police administration, and applicable federal and North Carolina laws and local ordinances.
Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, evaluate departmental programs and performance data, manage budgets and grants, and allocate personnel and equipment effectively.
Ability to lead, coach, mentor, supervise, and evaluate personnel; exercise sound judgment; resolve conflict or provide discipline when necessary; guide organizational change; and make timely decisions in high-pressure situations.
Ability to establish effective working relationships with municipal officials, employees, law enforcement partners, community groups, and the public.
Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively in writing and orally, and respond tactfully to sensitive concerns.
Ability to use relevant law enforcement, reporting, office, and financial management technology and prepare clear, accurate, and thorough reports.
Ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise discretion, uphold ethical standards, and ensure lawful and accountable departmental operations.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree.
Specialized executive or command leadership training, such as the FBI National Academy or Senior Management Institute for Police.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic direction for the Police Department in collaboration with the Town Manager, aligning departmental priorities with community needs.
Promote safety and quality of life through proactive community policing and engagement with residents, businesses, and visitors.
Prepare the department for coastal public safety challenges, including increased tourism, seasonal population changes, and evolving service demands.
Align staffing, training, equipment, and budget decisions with the department's mission and community needs.
Mentor officers and supervisors through feedback, professional development, and opportunities for growth.
Strengthen recruitment, retention, and accountability.
Establish a clear departmental vision and foster professionalism, collaboration, transparency, and service.
Lead with integrity, make thoughtful decisions, and set clear expectations.
Build trust and confidence within the department and maintain positive relationships with residents and the community.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package.
Employer-covered medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Employer-covered long-term and short-term disability.
401(k) with a 5% law enforcement contribution.
Paid vacation and sick leave.
12 paid holidays.
Double time on certain holidays.
Longevity bonus pay.
Tuition reimbursement.
Participation in the NC Retirement System.
Possibility of up to a 5% increase after six months of continuous employment in good standing.