The Leadership Beat: 'A new chief's first responsibility is to understand the organization before trying to change it'

Since becoming chief of the Liberty Lake (Wash.) Police Department in December 2020, he has focused on strengthening organizational culture through communication, participatory leadership and employee wellness. As I advanced in my own career, I came to understand that nearly every aspect of an organization is influenced by leadership. I have always believed that a new chief’s first responsibility is to understand the organization before trying to change it. I also spent time working with the leadership team to better understand their strengths, leadership styles, experience and developmental needs. For me, influencing organizational culture starts with two foundational principles: effective communication and inclusion.