Description
Lexington, Virginia
Chief of Police
The City of Lexington, Virginia, is seeking a collaborative, service minded, and community focused professional to serve as its next Chief of Police. This is a rare opportunity to lead a highly dedicated department in one of Virginia’s most beautiful and historic communities. At this pivotal moment, the next Chief will step into an organization shaped by both promise and transition. With many new officers and recently promoted leaders, the department is in the process of building its internal capacity. The ideal candidate will excel in leadership development, setting the tone for coaching, mentoring, and building leadership skills across the ranks. This role offers the next Chief the chance to build a lasting legacy—one defined by a workforce developed from within, deepened trust across the community, and a resilient policing model aligned with Lexington’s values. If you are a leader ready to combine strategic vision, operational backbone, and servant leadership in a welcoming yet closeknit environment, this is an exceptional place to make your mark. The Lexington Police Department (LPD) has an annual budget of $2.5 million, with an authorized staff comprised of the following: one captain, one lieutenant, four sergeants, four corporals, four police officers, a criminal detective, a school resource officer, an executive assistant, a records manager, and an accreditation manager.
Successful candidates will have at least fifteen years of progressively responsible police experience, at least ten years of which must be in a supervisory capacity and at least five years at the command level. Candidates must have a demonstrated track record of success in leadership development, community engagement, and interagency cooperation. Candidates must effectively interact with the media, community stakeholders, and elected officials. A bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university is required. A master's degree in Public Administration or a related field is highly desirable. Advanced training, such as the FBI National Executive Institute, FBI National Academy, Southern Police Institute, or Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) – Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), is considered a plus. Certification or eligibility for certification as a law enforcement officer in the Commonwealth of Virginia is required. Lexington offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, the current salary range for this at-will position is $113,661 to $136,098 annually, and placement will be based on the selected candidates' qualifications. The benefits package includes health, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid leave, professional development opportunities, and other customary municipal benefits. Interested candidates should apply by submitting a compelling cover letter and comprehensive resume to apply@publicsectorsearch.com by November 26th, 2025. Confidential inquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Mr. Justin Doll (Chief of Police, ret.) Telephone: (907) 748-5746, Email: justin@publicsectorsearch.com. Position profile can be viewed at https://publicsectorsearch.com/police-chief-recruitments/
EEO Statement
The City of Lexington is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, or disability. Your opportunity for employment with this City depends solely on your qualifications.
