The City of Grande Prairie is now receiving applications for the City’s new Chief of the Grande Prairie Police Service (GPPS).
The new Chief of Police will report directly to the Grande Prairie Police Commission and will be responsible for the overall leadership and direction of the newly established Grande Prairie Police Service. The role is critical in guiding public safety initiatives and shaping the future of policing in the community.
As the first new municipal police service in Alberta since 1956, GPPS represents a unique opportunity to build a modern, integrated public safety agency focused on local oversight, transparency, and recruitment. The Grande Prairie Police Commission, once fully formed and operational, will have final authority over the selection of the candidate and the definition of the Chief’s role, responsibilities, and required competencies.
“With the opportunities presented by the Grande Prairie Police Service and the unparalleled prospect of building a modern and integrated police service, the City eagerly anticipates the establishment of the Grande Prairie Police Commission and the key role that they will play in selecting the right candidate to lead the GPPS,” said Jackie Clayton, Mayor of Grande Prairie.
Reporting to the Police Commission, the Chief of Police will require both traditional policing leadership skills and strong capabilities in relationship building, collaboration, communication, strategic planning, recruitment, training, and administrative development. The Chief will be responsible for building the operational foundation of a new service from inception.
The Chief of Police will lead a team of more than 200 employees, including sworn officers and civilian staff, and will oversee public safety operations, accountability frameworks, community relations, and media communications.
The role also involves working closely with the City of Grande Prairie, RCMP, provincial and federal governments, community organizations, and police services across Alberta and Canada. The successful candidate must have a strong understanding of Grande Prairie’s community structure, priorities, and operational environment.
The application deadline is May 31, 2023, though recruitment will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected. Interested applicants can apply through the official job posting.
The City of Grande Prairie is committed to building a modern, professional, ethical, equitable, and locally accountable police service that enhances public safety within the community.
The City looks forward to working with the selected Police Commission candidate and welcoming the new Chief of Police to the Grande Prairie Police Service team.
