Job Details

Executive Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police

Position Number: 6282388
Location: Houston, TX
Position Type: Campus Safety and Police

Now Hiring: Executive Director of Public Safety & Chief of Police

University of Houston-Downtown | Houston, Texas

Champion Safety, Community Trust, and Leadership in the Heart of Downtown Houston.

The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) invites strategic, community-minded, and experienced law enforcement leaders to apply for the role of Executive Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police. This is a unique opportunity to lead a fully accredited campus police department in the heart of one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the country.

As a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority Serving Institution (MSI), UHD serves more than 13,500 students, faculty, and staff in downtown Houston. Our campus thrives on inclusion, service, and safety - and we are looking for a visionary law enforcement leader who is ready to advance those values through innovative safety strategies and community collaboration.

About the Role

Reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administration, the Chief of Police is the university's top public safety official, overseeing:

UHD Police Department operations, including 22 full-time sworn officers, 10 security officers, and 9 professional staff

Emergency management planning and response

Parking and transportation services

The UHD Police Department maintains accreditation from the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA) and operates 24/7 to ensure a secure and welcoming environment for learning and working.

What We're Looking For

We seek a leader who is:

Visionary and collaborative, with proven success managing complex public safety operations

Student- and community-centered, with a strong commitment to transparency and engagement

Strategic and experienced, with a minimum of 10 years of progressive law enforcement service, including 5 years in a major command role

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related field

Advanced Peace Officer Proficiency Certificate (Texas TCOLE or equivalent)

Eligible for licensure as a peace officer in Texas

Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and engage with diverse communities

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced degree (e.g., MPA, MS, MBA)

Experience in higher education or municipal police leadership

Completion of executive law enforcement training (e.g., FBI National Academy, SMIP, LEMIT)

Why UHD?

At UHD, your impact will go far beyond law enforcement - you'll play a pivotal role in shaping a culture of trust, accountability, and care. Join a university that values your leadership and offers a chance to make a lasting difference.

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Priority consideration will be given to applications received by July 7, 2025.

Ready to Lead with Purpose?

Apply now and help us create a safer, stronger UHD.