Chief of Police

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The Police Chief is a member of the City's senior management team and a recognized community leader. The new Chief will take command of a police agency that is charged with providing services to a community that has both residential customers and the increasing development of commercial and retail customer base, creating high customer service expectations. An effective police management approach and programs will be needed to address potential increases in crime rates resulting from the commercial and transient growth, and the proximity to crime and narcotics related issues associated with nearby traffic arteries and major urban centers. It is expected that the Chief will have a strong commitment to customer service, dedication to policing that involves the community, and understanding of the importance in managing crime and perceptions of public safety in a city like Kemp. The successful candidate should have broad experience in all areas of a municipal police department including patrol, criminal investigations and administration with an established successful record of effectively managing the activities and functions of a police department compatible or larger in size and complexity to the Kemp Police Department. It should be noted that candidates understand that the position is that of a "working Chief" and should be capable of handling the full capacity of criminal investigations . Additional areas of characteristics, knowledge, and experience include: Prioritization skills to maximize utilization of resources. Principles and practices of municipal budget administration. Passion and commitment to the enhancement of a community oriented policing. Insight and experience in working within an increasingly diverse and growing community. Experience with regional cooperation and developing/maintaining positive working relationships with other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Able to define clear goals, vision and direction for departmental personnel and the ability to maintain distinct levels of accountability. A commitment to regular and clear lines of communication and interaction with Departmental staff, other departments, the City Manager's Office, elected officials and the public. The chief should be comfortable and experienced in media relations and interactions with print and electronic media.

Qualifications:

MANAGEMENT STYLE/ PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Police Chief is an extremely important component of the City's commitment to maintaining an excellent quality of lif for the community. As a result, candidates who have an established track record of being out in the community and visible as well as accessible to people throughout the community will be important. Additionally, this same level of visibility will be important in the relationships with the Departmental personnel on the part of the new Chief. In evaluation applicants for this position, the city will be seeking candidates who have the following characteristics and competencies: The ability to build consensus from differing points of view and arrive at effective decisions. A demonstrated record of cooperation and functioning as a team player. A decisive leader who exercises sound judgement and is open to the ideas of others. A fiscally responsible manager who is able to balance the needs of the Department with limited financial resources of the community against other City departments' needs. A good listener who listens to both sides of an issue. Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to establish positive working relationships with others are sought. A communicator who can effectively convey his/her ideas orally, written or in presentation environments. A proven record of absolute integrity, consistency and fairness in the application of policies and discipline and in the treatment of Department personnel. A person who sets high personal standards for him/herself and others in the Department. An effective delegator with the ability to assign responsibilities to subordinate personnel and hold them accountable for results. A commitment to high levels of staff training and development and capable of identifying external resources to supplement general fund support of training. While aware of politics, the Chief must scrupulously avoid personal involvement in political issues. An individual who demonstrates the highest levels of personal and professional ethics and behavior and leads by commitment, example and ethical standards, both on and off the job.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Seven years experience in municipal law enforcement or equivalent is required, with a minimum of three years experience in a command level position.

Other requirements include:

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Texas driver's license within thirty days. Possession of, or ability to obtain, Peace Officer certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement at the Advanced level or above. Completion of related advance training such as

LEMIT, ILEA, FBI

National Academy or similar advanced programs is preferred but not required. Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred but not required.

COMPENSATION

The anticipated starting salary is dependent upon the background qualifications of the successful candidate. Kemp has a competitive benefits package including Texas Municipal Retirement System at the 7%, 2:1 match level, and other highly competitive benefits.

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS

Qualified candidates please submit your resume to: City Secretary, Allene Gilmore via email at: allene.gilmore@cityofkemp.org This position is open until filled; however, interested applicants are encouraged to apply no later than: June 9, 2026. Following the first review date, applications will be screened against criteria provided in this listing and the City of Kemp will consider offering interviews to selected candidates. Interviews in Kemp will be offered by the City to those candidates names as Finalist, with reference checks, background check, and academic verifications conducted after receiving candidates'' permission. For more information, please contact: City Administrator, Dean Winters 903-498-3191 or dean.winters@cityofkemp.org Full Brochure