Chief of Police

Applicants must apply by July 31, 2026 

The historic, progressive, and eclectic City of Asheville, North Carolina—nestled in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains—seeks a seasoned, strategic, and collaborative law enforcement executive to serve as its next Chief of Police. 

The Asheville Police Department (APD) is a premier agency with a proud reputation for technology innovation and progressive community-focused policing. The next Chief will step into this leadership role at a defining moment for both the agency and the community. Moving forward from the lingering structural and fiscal impacts of 2024’s Hurricane Helene, the next Chief must balance immediate operational action with long-term organizational sustainability. 

The ideal candidate is a champion of team-based decision-making who values transparent communication, holds a deep appreciation for diverse populations, and can masterfully navigate complex community expectations under close public scrutiny. This leader must show a genuine passion for the city and step into the role without a pre-set personal agenda. Additionally, Asheville’s next Chief will spend significant time listening to various personnel and neighborhood stakeholders to keep Asheville progressing towards its vision as an inclusive, connected and engaged community where everyone has access to economic opportunity, housing stability, and core municipal services.