Deputy Chief of Police

Job Summary

The Deputy Chief of Police (Deputy Chief) serves as the second-in-command of the Western Washington University Police Department (WWUPD) and plays a critical leadership role in ensuring a safe, secure, and supportive environment for the university community. Reporting directly to the Chief of Police/AVP (Chief), the Deputy Chief oversees the department's daily patrol operations.

This role carries significant responsibility for the preservation of peace, protection of life and property, and enforcement of laws and regulations in a manner that supports the university’s mission and values. The Deputy Chief exercises sound judgment, discretion, and strategic planning to ensure that public safety efforts positively reflect and enhance the university’s reputation.

As a highly visible representative of the WWUPD, the Deputy Chief is expected to engage confidently and professionally with students, faculty, staff, parents, visitors, law enforcement partners, and community stakeholders. This position requires strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work with diverse cultural and social backgrounds, and a demonstrated commitment to community‑oriented policing.

The Deputy Chief assists the Chief in long‑range strategic planning, annual budget development, collective bargaining efforts, and assumes full command in the Chief’s absence.

A key part of this role is fostering a culture of care, open accountability, and inclusive leadership. The successful candidate will champion employee engagement, promote diversity and equity, support positive morale, and actively mentor and develop staff. This includes proven ability to lead with integrity, hold others accountable through constructive and courageous conversations, and consistently act with fairness, professionalism, and ethical clarity.

The Deputy Chief must adhere to all applicable university policies and procedures, state laws, and regulatory requirements to ensure the department operates effectively, lawfully, and equitably.

Under the direction of the Chief, the Deputy Chief will provide strategic oversight of daily department operations to ensure a safe, secure, and supportive environment for the WWU community. This position will supervise patrol functions, assign personnel to duties (including crime prevention, training, and special assignments), ensure consistent coverage through flexible scheduling, and conduct annual performance evaluations of direct reports. This position will review and approve police reports for accuracy, completeness, and compliance before dissemination.

The Deputy Chief will lead the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs), crime‑prevention strategies, and emergency response protocols. The Deputy Chief will oversee planning for major campus events, assume command during critical incidents, and respond to calls for service when appropriate, ensuring enforcement of local, state, and university laws.

The Deputy Chief will support departmental accreditation efforts in alignment with WASPC and/or IACLEA standards, assist in developing training programs, and participate in staff and community meetings.

The Deputy Chief will direct the supervision, evaluation, mentorship, and professional development of department staff, either directly or through subordinate supervisors. Must be able to foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement.

The Deputy Chief will oversee internal investigations into alleged employee misconduct, ensuring thorough fact‑finding, fair analysis, and appropriate recommendations for corrective or disciplinary action in compliance with labor agreements, policies, and applicable laws. Will review and approve personnel records, statistical reports, and personnel action forms.

The Deputy Chief will act as a key liaison between WWUPD and the larger university community. Participating in university committees and initiatives that foster strong, proactive partnerships, build trust,…