PSP Partners with UCPD to Form Leadership Development Program

PSP has joined with University Circle Police Department to conduct a leadership development program, one similar to the program PSP piloted with Hunting Valley PD. The program is for supervisors in mid- to upper-management positions looking to improve their leadership accumen. Unlike "traditional" leadership training programs, this starts with in-depth assessments of each participant, identifying management competencies, strengths, "blind spots," and challenge areas.

PSP Psychologist Dr. LaMaurice Gardner - a 25+ year Reserve/Lt. Deputy with the Oakland County Sheriff's Department - will be assisting as a trainer and coach. The program centers around behaviorally specific goals, using leadership coaching to help candidates focus on their specific developmental needs, supervisory skills, shortcomings, etc.

Each participant's Department Supervisor (and/or Chief) will separately weigh in to provide input regarding the individual's aptitudes, skill sets, and needs. Coaching discussions, however, will be 100% confidential and may at times deal with personal issues that impact performance. Participants will attend three half-day training sessions and meet with their executive coach multiple times over the course of a year.

Content and objectives for the program will include:

• Identify/clarify individual's career goals, aptitudes, and opportunities

• Fine tune core leadership skills required for Command Staff professionals

• Enhance Emotional Intelligence and thereby improve both leadership influence and subordinate performance

• Improve communication/teamwork/conflict resolution skills

• Facilitate self-awareness and appreciation of others perspectives

Participants will complete multiple online assessments prior to starting the program. Instruments used will include the Hogan Personality Inventory (HPI), considered by many to be the best leadership evaluation tool in the world. Leaders will also take the EQ-i 2.0 to assess emotional intelligence, and at least one additional research-proven measure of leadership acumen. The reports for each of these assessments will be provided to the candidates' Departments as part of the program.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Jensen to learn more or contact Chief Tom Wetzel from UCPD for additional information!