Chief of Police - University Police Department

Primary Responsibilities: Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all University police, public safety, security, emergency management, and parking operations across multiple campuses Foster a safe, secure, and welcoming campus environment through community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and collaborative public safety initiatives Direct campus emergency preparedness, incident response, continuity of operations, and critical incident management, including oversight of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), and Incident Command System (ICS) Serve as the University's senior leader for Clery Act compliance, campus safety reporting, crime statistics, emergency notifications, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance Oversee security technology and communications systems, including surveillance, alarm, dispatch, and mass notification platforms Provide administrative leadership for parking, transportation, traffic management, ADA accessibility, and transit operations while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations Build and maintain strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, emergency management organizations, transportation partners, and community stakeholders Lead organizational planning, budgeting, policy development, accreditation efforts, performance assessment, and continuous operational improvement Recruit, develop, mentor, and evaluate department personnel while fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, wellness, inclusion, and employee engagement Advise executive leadership on public safety, security, emergency management, and institutional risk management strategies Represent the University before governing boards, governmental agencies, community organizations, media representatives, and professional associations Champion innovative, collaborative, and data-informed approaches that support institutional resilience, student success, and the University's strategic priorities

Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Emergency Management, Homeland Security, Business Administration, Public Safety Administration, or a closely related field required; master's degree is considered a plus Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in law enforcement, public safety, emergency management, or a related field, including supervisory, operational, and budget management responsibilities. Experience in higher education is considered a plus Must possess current Missouri POST Class A Peace Officer License or be eligible to obtain within 6 months of employmentFEMA Incident Command System (ICS), National Incident Management System (NIMS), Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), Certified Public Manager (CPM), or equivalent professional certifications are considered a plus Demonstrated knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and best practices related to law enforcement, campus safety, emergency preparedness, response, and recovery Experience developing and managing departmental budgets and financial resources Knowledge of mediation, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving techniques Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders at all organizational levels Proven ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and respond effectively to sensitive or high-profile situations Strong leadership, organizational, and personnel management skills with a commitment to fostering a positive and accountable work environment Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively during emergencies and with diverse audiences Demonstrated ability to prioritize competing demands, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions

Application Deadline: The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by July 31, 2026. To Apply: Submit the following items online by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page: Letter of interest addressing position qualifications Current ResumeNames and contact information of three professional references

Additional Information: About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.