Description
CITY OF CHICAGO
CIVILIAN OFFICE OF POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY
CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR
Chicago, the nation’s third-largest city, is a major cultural, financial, and transportation hub
on the shores of Lake Michigan. Home to 2.7 million residents, Chicago is celebrated for its
rich architectural legacy, vibrant neighborhoods, world-class arts and culture, and strong
civic pride. The City operates under a Mayor-Council form of government and is committed
to equity, transparency, and public service.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is an independent civilian agency that
investigates allegations of police misconduct, including excessive force, officer-involved
shootings, deaths in custody, sexual misconduct, and bias-based verbal abuse. In addition to
investigating serious incidents, COPA identifies patterns of misconduct and issues policy
recommendations to improve policing practices and strengthen public trust.
Appointed by the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability, and subject
to City Council approval, the Chief Administrator leads COPA’s team of approximately 140
professionals, overseeing investigative, legal, and administrative divisions. This role is
responsible for ensuring investigations are fair, thorough, and timely; advancing systemic
reforms; maintaining constructive relationships with law enforcement and community
stakeholders; and serving as COPA’s public voice in hearings, forums, and the media.
The ideal candidate is a courageous, principled leader, an attorney or experienced
investigator with substantial experience in criminal, civil rights, labor law, or law
enforcement oversight. They will demonstrate proven ability to handle complex, high-stakes
investigations; balance transparency with confidentiality; build trust across diverse
communities; and foster an equitable, mission-focused organizational culture. Integrity,
sound judgment, political acumen, and the capacity to navigate Chicago’s intricate civic
landscape are crucial.
This position offers a salary of $203,532 plus benefits. First consideration will be given to
applications received by September 26, 2025. Submit a resume and letter of interest to
[email protected]. Confidential inquiries: Brett Byers, (323) 403-8279,
[email protected] or Christine Boulware, (312) 391-6098,
[email protected]. The complete leadership profile is on The Byers Group
website.
The City of Chicago is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to building a
