Date: Wednesday, August 21, 2024

Victoria, BC – The Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board has extended Chief Del Manak’s contract until August 31, 2025, and has announced the firm that will be hired to find his replacement. The Board also elected a new Chair and Vice-Chair.

Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board Chair Elected

During their meeting on Tuesday, August 20, The Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board (VEPB) has elected a new Chair. Micayla Hayes was elected during the Board meeting on Tuesday, August 20.

“I am grateful to my fellow board members for their trust in my ability to take on this role. I look forward to leading this team as we navigate the evolution of policing as a profession, and in our communities,” said Micayla Hayes.

New VEPB Chair Micayla Hayes 

New VEPB Vice-Chair Elizabeth Cull

This is the first time the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board has had a chair who is not a mayor of Victoria or Esquimalt, and is a result of new rules under the Police Act.

“This is the first time we have had an elected board chair, and I am certain that Micayla Hayes will do an excellent job leading this team,” said former co-chair Mayor Barb Desjardins.

The Board has also elected Elizabeth Cull as the new Vice-Chair.

“Micayla Hayes and Elizabeth Cull have contributed significantly as board members and I look forward to working with them in this new role,” said former co-chair Mayor Marianne Alto.

Micayla Hayes has served on the Board since 2021 as a Provincial appointee and previously held the role of vice-chair.  Elizabeth Cull has served on the Board since 2023 and is a Provincial appointee. You can read more about them on the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board page.

Chief Constable’s Contract Extended

The Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board has extended Chief Del Manak’s contract for eight months, until August 31, 2025, while they engage in a nationwide search for a new Chief Constable who will be the best fit for the Victoria Police Department and the communities of Victoria and Esquimalt.

“Choosing a new Chief Constable is one of the most important decisions a Police Board will ever make, and we take this responsibility seriously. This is a complicated task, and we will be taking the time to ensure that we make the best selection possible,” said VEPB Chair Micayla Hayes. “As a board, we feel that the department and our communities are best served by consistent, experienced leadership during this time.”

Chief Del Manak has served as Chief Constable since July 1, 2017, when he was confirmed in that position after serving as interim Chief since January 2016. He will serve a total of nine years and eight months as the Chief Constable of the Victoria Police Department.

“This is a critical time in the evolution of police services, and the Victoria Police Department faces both unique and general challenges. I am proud to continue leading our department and serving our communities as the board takes the time they need to conduct a thorough selection process,” said Chief Del Manak.

Replacement Chief Search Firm Selected

Following a Request for Proposals and thorough review of submissions, executive search firm Pinton Forrest & Madden Group Inc. (PFM) has been selected to conduct the search for a new chief constable.

“We were impressed by the proposal that PFM submitted, and their clear demonstration of understanding of both the communities we serve,” said VEPB Chair Micayla Hayes. “We have full confidence that they will conduct an exhaustive nationwide process and ensure that we find the best fit for Victoria and Esquimalt.”

Updates on the selection process will be available as the process to hire a new chief constable unfolds, through 2025.

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