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. Located along the I-94 corridor between Detroit and Chicago, the City combines the amenities of a regional center with the character and livability of an established Michigan community.
The Battle Creek Police Department is a full-service municipal law enforcement agency providing 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 operational capabilities include Patrol/Operations, Investigations, gang and drug enforcement, K-9, drone operations, an Emergency Response Team, victim advocacy, crisis intervention resources, an embedded clinician, forensic services, and regional intelligence partnerships. Current initiatives include expanded data-informed deployment capabilities, an AI-enabled deployment dashboard, and development of a Drone as First Responder program.
Operating under a Council-Manager form of government, the Chief of Police reports to the City Manager and serves as a key member of the City’s executive leadership team. The City seeks an approachable, engaged, collaborative, and decisive executive who establishes clear expectations, communicates effectively, develops people, and inspires confidence throughout the organization and community. The next Chief will build upon BCPD’s progress in reducing serious violent crime while strengthening succession planning, workforce development, community trust, constitutional policing, fiscal stewardship, labor-management relationships, technology, and organizational effectiveness.
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. Candidates are encouraged to submit a résumé, cover letter, and professional references to apply@publicsectorsearch.com. References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.
Confidential inquiries and questions regarding this career opportunity should be directed to:
Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc.
Ron Walsh, Senior Consultant
City Manager (Ret.) / Chief of Police (Ret.)
(916) 789-9990 (Office)
(516) 672-5031 (Mobile)
ron@publicsectorsearch.com
