Bradenton Police Department looking for two assistant chiefs

BRADENTON -- Less than two months after swearing in its new leader, the Bradenton Police Department is looking for two assistant police chiefs.

On Monday, the assistant chief of police openings were posted on the city website

Police Chief Melanie Bevan was sworn in as BPD's top cop in February, becoming the first woman to lead the department. Now she's reading resumes to find two right hands.

"I am looking for well-seasoned professionals who can assist me in leading," Bevan said.

Bevan said she hopes to fill both positions with qualified applicants from inside or outside the department.

"I think the Bradenton Police Department is a great department and stay tuned," Bevan said. "We are really going to become more progressive and find a greater level of excellence."

Assistant chief is a new position at the BPD, which previously operated with one, or at times two deputy chiefs.

"I have never been a fan of the deputy chief model," Bevan said. "I like the

idea of having peer groups. ... Even if it consists of two, you have the opportunity for healthy conflict, dialogue and debate."

Bevan said she hopes hiring two assistant chiefs will provide more of a team effort.

The job listing says resumes will be accepted through May 2, but Bevan said she is not waiting to move forward.

"As qualified applicants submit their names, I will be making decisions about whether they will continue in the process," Bevan said.

Mayor and Police Commissioner Wayne Poston said the newly created assistant chief of police positions look like great jobs. He expressed confidence in his new chief's changes.

Salaries for the positions will range from $72,779 to $109,179 depending on qualifications, according to the job posting.

Requirements include:

Knowledge of budgeting and staffing.

Knowledge of the standards by which quality of police service is evaluated and the use of police records and their application to police administration.

Knowledge of supervisory requirements associated with the criminal investigative component of a police agency.

Knowledge of the functions of other governmental agencies and authorities as they relate to police work.

Ability to plan, organize, direct and evaluate the work of subordinates engaged in diversified activities.

Ability to analyze complex verbal, investigative and statistical reports and formulate action based on analysis.

Ability to analyze complex organizational problems and determine proper courses of actions.

Ability to effectively prepare and present oral and written material relating to the activities of the BPD.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, city officials, state and federal authorities, civic leaders and community.

To apply, submit a resume via fax at 941-932-9546, e-mail one to Christy.Habony@cityofbradenton.com or hand deliver it to the city of Bradenton Human Resources Department.

For more information, visit the job opportunities tab at: cityofbradenton.com.

This story was originally published April 13, 2016 at 11:46 PM with the headline "Bradenton Police Department looking for two assistant chiefs ."