Director of Public Safety - Police Chief

Position Objective:
West Hennepin Public Safety (WHPS) is currently accepting applications and seeking an accomplished visionary leader to serve as the Director of Public Safety. This multifaceted position combines the responsibilities of Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO), Emergency Management Director, and Chief Executive Officer for the joint powers agreement serving the Cities of Maple Plain and Independence.

The Director oversees all police operations, emergency preparedness, and administrative functions, including personnel management and financial oversight. This role requires a strategic leader capable of shaping department policy, responding to the evolving needs of the community, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws. As the face of WHPS, the Director is integral to maintaining public safety, fostering trust, and building strong community partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of WHPS operations, policies, and personnel.
• Supervise and develop police staff while fostering a professional and collaborative culture.
• Manage department finances, budgets, and resources as part of WHPS’s unique internal administrative structure.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws while addressing public safety challenges proactively.
• Coordinate mutual aid requests and interagency collaboration.
• Serve as the Emergency Management Director for Maple Plain and Independence, overseeing preparedness and responses aligned with the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
• Represent the department to the Police Commission (WHPS governing body), city officials, and the public.
• Promote community-oriented policing strategies and build strong relationships with residents and stakeholders.
• For a detailed list of responsibilities, refer to the Director of Public Safety job description.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently Licensed as a Minnesota Peace Officer with the Minnesota POST Board.
• Minimum of 15 years of full-time law enforcement experience, including experience in a supervisory role at the rank of sergeant or higher within an agency of 10 or more officers.
• A minimum of a two-year degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field. An advanced degree is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Completion of advanced executive-level police training through institutions such as:
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
  • Southern Police Institute
  • Northwestern University Center for Public Safety
  • Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
  • Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association
    Other comparable executive-level training will be considered.
• Knowledge of emergency management principles, with NIMS certification. (State of Minnesota Emergency Manager certification preferred.)
• Strong character, integrity, and proven ability to lead and manage a joint powers law enforcement entity.
• Participate in a selection process determined by the West Hennepin Public Safety Police Commission to identify the most qualified candidate.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s, master’s or higher degree in education, public administration, criminal justice, or related field. 
• Demonstrated success in leadership and administrative roles.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including public speaking and media relations.
• Knowledgeable in contemporary policing strategies, operational best practices, and community engagement.
• Experience managing joint powers or multi-jurisdictional law enforcement agencies.
• High achiever with a commitment to excellence and innovation.

Application Process:
To apply, please submit the following materials below or to Administrative Assistant Kaylen Dwinell at kdwinell@westhennepin.com:

• Completed WHPS Application. 
• Letter of  Interest.
• Professional Resume.
• Completed Questionaire 

Application Deadline: All application documents must be received no later than January 10, 2025 3:00 p.m. For additional information, contact WHPS at 763-479-0500.

About WHPS:
West Hennepin Public Safety is a joint powers entity providing law enforcement and emergency management services to the Cities of Maple Plain and Independence. WHPS is committed to professionalism, integrity, and community-oriented policing to ensure a safe environment for residents and visitors alike.

WHPS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or status with regard to public assistance.

The following is the projected timeline but is subject to change. 

• December 11th, 2024 to January 10th, 2025
  • Application Period 
• January 13th to January 17th, 2025
  • Application Review - Candidate Selection 
• January 22nd, 2025
  • Initial Interviews 
• January 27th to January 31st, 2025
  • Final Interviews 
• February 3rd, 2025
  • Selection and Conditional Offer
• February 4th to February 28th, 2025
  • Background Investigation and Evaluations
• April 1st, 2025
  • Proejcted Start Date