Description

The City of Ridgefield is seeking a decisive leader with clear command presence balanced by interpersonal skills that build trust and communicate effectively both internally and externally. This Chief position is an opportunity to join a high performing and growing department backed by a supportive community and strong quality of life.
The Police Chief is one of the most visible positions in Ridgefield. The City depends on the Police Chief to provide professional oversight and progressive leadership for the police department. The new Chief needs to develop a collaborative working relationship with labor, build a trust relationship with the City department heads and elected officials, and demonstrate excellent listening and communication skills.
The Police Chief reports directly to the City Manager and works in collaboration with the City’s management team, Mayor and City Council and participates in the development and success of collective goals of the City. Except for general administrative direction, the Chief works independently with performance based on achieved results. He/she assumes full leadership and management responsibility for the Ridgefield Police Department services and activities.

Requirements

Any combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the level of required knowledge and abilities may be considered:
Competitive candidates should have eight+ years of command level experience in modern police work which has afforded progressively responsible experience in a variety of police functions including major command duties. This should be supplemented by formal training in police administration and a bachelor’s degree in a related field. A master’s degree, successful completion of the FBI Academy or equivalent is preferred. Candidates must meet any state requirements including possession of a valid driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire) with a clean driving record free from serious or frequent violations and the requirements of RCW 43.101.095, Peace Officer Certification.
Candidates who have been out of active-duty law enforcement for more than two years will not be considered.