Chief of Police-Albuquerque; NM

The City of Albuquerque is conducting a national search for its next Chief of Police. This is a rare opportunity to lead a large, professional metropolitan police department that has completed a significant period of reform and is now operating in a post–consent decree environment. Albuquerque seeks a seasoned police executive ready to build on a strong foundation, inspire a committed workforce, and partner with a diverse and engaged community to advance 21st-century policing.

Over the past decade, the City has made substantial investments in constitutional policing, accountability, training, and modern systems. The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) now operates under full local control with clear standards embedded in policy, supervision, and organizational culture. The department is stable, professionally grounded, forward-looking, and well-positioned to sustain momentum, strengthen public trust, and continue an upward trajectory focused on operational excellence and community confidence.

The Albuquerque Police Department is a full-service metropolitan law enforcement agency with approximately 1,822 sworn and civilian professionals and an annual operating budget of $284.7 million. The Department delivers comprehensive police services through multiple bureaus that support patrol, investigations, specialized operations, training, and community engagement. APD places a strong emphasis on data-driven policing, transparency, and the exercise of professional discretion to advance public safety and community confidence.

APD enters this next chapter with clear expectations, strong systems, and a workforce committed to professionalism, service, and public trust.

The next Chief of Police will inherit a large, complex metropolitan police department serving a diverse and dynamic community with high expectations and the desire for the next Chief to understand the unique needs of this community. The Chief will be expected to continue driving crime reduction through intelligence-led and evidence-based strategies. Key priorities include strengthening recruitment, retention, officer-wellness, and leadership development;

reinforcing accountability and public trust; expanding partnerships related to behavioral health and crisis response; and leveraging technology and analytics to improve operational performance and organizational transparency.

The ideal candidate is a highly visible, principled, and forward-thinking police executive with demonstrated experience leading a large, complex organization. The successful candidate will be a steady, confident, and credible leader with strong operational instincts who is approachable, authentic, and skilled in collaborating effectively with elected officials and city leadership. A deep commitment to professionalism, integrity, and workforce development is essential, as is the ability to guide a capable department into its next era of excellence.

The City offers a competitive executive compensation package, with salary and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience, designed to attract highly qualified candidates nationwide. The first review of applications will occur in late February or early March 2026; however, this recruitment remains open until it is filled. Early applications are encouraged. Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive résumé, cover letter, and professional references to  .

Confidential inquiries may be directed to Gary Peterson, Chief of Police (Ret.) and President/CEO, at  or  , or to Ronald Walsh Jr., Police Commissioner (Ret.) and Senior Consultant, at  or  .

The City of Albuquerque is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels.