Oversight Board asks DHR to solicit recruiting firms for inspector general search

The Sheriff's Department Oversight Board voted unanimously on March 7 to ask the Department of Human Resources to issue a request for proposals for executive search firms to assist with recruiting a new inspector general.

Benjamin Ritchie, a senior human resources consultant with the Department of Human Resources, recommended using an executive search firm because such firms have specialized networks and tools for public-sector executive recruitments. Ritchie said an executive search would typically draft the job announcement, conduct outreach and vet finalists; he gave an estimated fee of about $55,000, excluding candidate travel and other direct costs.

Board members stressed that the mayor's office must still grant position authority before any contract is signed. Ritchie said the board may issue an RFP before position authority is finalized to solicit proposals, but the actual selection and contracting would wait until the department has position authority and budget approval.

During public comment, one attendee said executive searches can appear biased and urged a short-term appointment to reduce the risk of undue influence. The board did not adopt such a limitation; instead the motion approved asking DHR to issue the RFP and to return with proposals for the board to review.

The board recorded a roll-call vote of 5 ayes and 0 nays. The board's action authorizes staff to solicit proposals but does not commit funds or finalize hiring until the mayor's office confirms position authority and any necessary budget allocation.

The board is expected to review responses to the RFP and discuss next steps once position authority is confirmed.