Today we’d like to introduce you to Evander Collier IV. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Chief Collier is originally from Jacksonville, the largest city in Florida. He spent more than 31 years serving with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, working his way through the ranks to become one of the agency’s top leaders. Throughout his law enforcement career, he has successfully built and sustained strong community, strategic partnerships, and stakeholder relationships. He is known for his collaborative “lead from the front” approach in driving reductions in crime and improving the productivity of all areas under his leadership. Chief Collier is recognized for his comprehensive and strategic crime-fighting approach that delivered notable results, such as a 50% reduction in the city of Jacksonville’s homicides and a 30-40% reduction in violent crime for 4 consecutive years. Chief Collier holds a Master of Arts in public administration from the University of Central Michigan and completed the Administrative Officer Commander Master Level Program at the University of Louisville, Southern Police Institute. He is a recognized subject matter expert in multiple areas of the law enforcement profession, including community policing, crime prevention, leadership, and problem-solving initiatives. Chief Collier was sworn in as Chief of Police for the City of Cocoa on April 29, 2021. In his first 18 months on the job, he has successfully led the men and women of the police department to initiatives that helped reduce overall crime by 11% during 2021 and continuing through 2022. He is currently president of the Brevard County Chiefs of Police Association. He is a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Brevard County.
Would it have been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a challenging road. Life is filled with challenges, obstacles, and circumstances constantly trying to derail you. When I accepted the position as Chief of Police for the City of Cocoa, my mission was clear. It was to change a decades-long culture of policing and bring it into the 21st century. This requires a shift in philosophy and practice. It requires accountability, integrity, and intentional actions to treat others with dignity and respect. It is about raising new leaders and creating a culture that demands the best from myself and everyone under my leadership. This type of culture shift often meets resistance. But there will be success with time, focus, and determination.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a law enforcement leader and pride myself on training others to take over my job after I’m gone and to do it way better. I’m a collaborator and team builder. I’m focused on leading law enforcement agencies to increase public trust through positive community engagement. I like to be a change agent, the change you want to see. I believe in succession planning and being able to help train and inspire others to elevate themselves to be their very best.
Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have mentors all over the country that are leaders in roles like mine. They are chiefs, sheriffs, city leaders, and role models. I constantly seek training opportunities for growth, professional development, and self-improvement. I’m constantly reading up-to-date books on leadership, how to grow organizations, and applying the knowledge I discover along the way. It’s about always surrounding myself with positive people, messages, and energy. This translates into a positive mindset that always seeks to make things better.
Contact Info:
- Website: WWW.COCOAPOLICE.COM
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/cocoapolice
- Twitter: WWW.TWITTER.COM/COCOAPOLICE
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/cocoa-police
- Other: JOINCOCOAPOLICE.COM
Image Credits
Images are by the Cocoa Police Department. Last photo of Chief Collier sitting at table is courtesy of Florida Today.
