Client: City of Sacramento, California
Position: Police Chief
Closing Date: November 9, 2026
Additional Information:
A national search is underway to attract highly qualified candidates to lead the Sacramento Police Department. This is an incredible opportunity to lead one of California’s largest law enforcement agencies in a city eager to make comprehensive and positive changes that build on both community trust and ensuring public safety. With strong civic and community participation, Sacramento seeks a proven leader for Police Chief who embodies a thoughtful, collaborative, and comprehensive approach to law enforcement that adheres to, upholds, and is compliant with the policies and values established by the City of Sacramento.
The City of Sacramento is the sixth largest city in California with approximately 530,000 residents. The Sacramento Region, including surrounding cities and counties, has a population of approximately 2.5 million, making it the 27th largest metropolitan area in the nation. The community is one of the most culturally diverse of all American cities with a blend of residents, businesses, and students from many cultures and backgrounds.
Top candidates will have a career history that demonstrates outstanding leadership skills and the ability to embrace and celebrate the culture, community values, diversity, and significance the capital City of California represents. This highly accomplished individual will be strategic and well-prepared to address an array of vital policy issues, including police accountability, transparency, and neighborhood needs. Top candidates will have an accomplished career history and be recognized for their engaging and personable style, with excellent communication skills.
Qualifying Education and Experience
- Education: Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. A master’s degree is preferred but not required.
- Experience: Eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional law enforcement experience with a municipal agency, including substantial command-level leadership experience of which, must have included at least two (2) years in an executive or senior management capacity with responsibility for significant organizational functions, operations, personnel, and/or programs.
- Special Training: Completion of one or more approved police management training courses is preferred but not required. Approved examples include those offered by California Command College, FBI National Academy, POST Executive Development, Senior Management Institute for Police, and/or PERF Executive Leadership Institute.
- Driver’s License: Possession of a valid California Class C Driver’s License at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Certification: POST Management Certificate, or ability to obtain this certificate within POST designated timeframes. A POST Executive Certificate is highly desirable.
- Regional Residency Requirements: The Police Chief must physically reside in the Sacramento region, or have the ability to regularly report to a City of Sacramento physical worksite with little notice.
Compensation and Benefits
This is an at-will position and the current salary range for Police Chief is $250,341.08 to $322,764.75 annually. Salary is negotiable depending on experience and qualifications. The City of Sacramento offers a generous benefits package.
Application and Selection Process
This is a confidential process and will be handled accordingly throughout the various stages of the process. References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.
Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply no later than November 9, 2026 to Ralph Andersen & Associates by sending a compelling cover letter and comprehensive resume to apply@ralphandersen.com.
Only the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the confidential selection process anticipated in early December.
Timing for a final decision and selection is anticipated during late December to early January. An offer, contingent on successfully completing processes required by California POST, will follow. A public announcement and media release of the final selection will be made when appropriate. The new Police Chief will join the City of Sacramento upon a mutually agreed upon date.
Please note that all recruitment dates are tentative and subject to change based on panel member availability and scheduling needs; candidates are encouraged to remain flexible throughout the interview process.
Confidential inquiries and questions regarding this career opportunity should be directed to Sabrina Landreth at sabrina@ralphandersen.com or to Chief Daniel Hahn (ret) at daniel@ralphandersen.com, or call 916.630.4900.
The City of Sacramento encourages women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, medical condition, or pregnancy.
0 Comments