Earlier today the City of Champaign began accepting applications from experienced law enforcement professionals interested in serving as Champaign’s next Chief of Police. Candidates that are ready to take the next step in their careers and serving Champaign’s residents can learn more about the position by visiting champaignil.gov/policechief. For full consideration, applications must be received by November 24, 2021. City Manager Dorothy Ann David anticipates making a hiring decision in early 2022.
“The City needs an experienced and engaging professional to lead the highly-skilled and dedicated men and women at the Champaign Police Department,” said City Manager Dorothy Ann David. “We are looking for a dynamic leader who is ready to hit the ground running and jump in right away to help the City tackle a number of high priorities. Valuable input from community members was used to help develop the Chief of Police recruitment profile, which will serve as a guide as we evaluate candidates and identify those with the experience and qualifications that best align with the needs of our City.”
Prior to opening the application phase, the City held several public meetings and used a public survey to gather community feedback regarding the priorities, qualities, and characteristics the City Manager should look for when selecting the next Chief of Police. That information was carefully reviewed and incorporated into the job recruitment profile. Baker Tilly US, LLP, a recruitment consulting firm, is managing the nationwide search to identify potential candidates and encouraging those individuals to apply.
After nine years as Chief of Police, Anthony Cobb resigned on August 6, 2021, in order to accept a position with the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Deputy Chief of Police Matthew Henson has served as Interim Chief of Police since Cobb’s retirement. Henson has stated he will not be a candidate for the Chief of Police position.