Cam McBride named Saskatoon’s new chief of police

Saskatoon’s Board of Police Commissioners announced Cam McBride as the new chief of police for the Saskatoon Police Service on Friday.

McBride called this a surreal experience, saying he never aspired to be chief in his early years serving in Saskatoon.

He spoke about what he wants to do with his new role, adding that’s a question he anticipates many will have for him. “I want to look in.”

McBride said there is a lot of professionalism and dedication within the Saskatoon Police Service.

“It’s hard work, and I know that we really need to bolster our ability to support our members who are doing really hard work.”

He said this support needs to go out to the civilian staff that work within the police service as well, and that many are involved in topics that can be disturbing in nature.

McBride said a police organization that values community is very important, adding that community safety is not just a police issue.

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He said over his 27 years of policing he’s developed a love for his work and for his community.

“To have the opportunity to lead in a way that I believe is best with everyone’s help, with the ability to come to a shared understanding of what community needs, what the service needs, it’s an incredible opportunity.”

He said his style of leadership is to embrace collaboration and partnership.

McBride took on the role of deputy chief back in July 2023.

Former chief Troy Cooper announced his retirement on Oct. 19, 2023, after almost six years of service. His final day was Jan. 16.

The job posting went up some time after January with the goal of having a new chief up and running by summer.

An independent recruitment firm was brought in to help with the selection of the new chief.

Dave Haye has been the interim police chief.

Mayor Charlie Clark described what kind of person was needed for the role of chief.

“You need this unicorn that can both be strategic and strong and thinking operationally about what’s needed and be very aware of the needs of a diverse membership within the police service, but also be an incredible community builder and relationship builder,” Clark said.

He said he has a lot of confidence in McBride to take on that role.