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OACP, Schulich ExecEd, and DeGroote Executive Education Partner to Launch the
Certificate in Executive Leadership Program for Aspiring Police Executives
For immediate release: October 15, 2025
(Toronto, ON) – The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), Schulich ExecEd (Schulich School of Business at York University), and Executive Education at the DeGroote School of Business (McMaster University) are proud to announce the launch of the Certificate in Executive Leadership Program, beginning January 2026.
This collaboration brings together three respected institutions in the world of policing to deliver a blended and accessible leadership development experience tailored specifically for aspiring executive police professionals across the province.
Created in response to the evolving demands of modern policing, the 11-month program (January–November 2026) is designed to prepare aspiring police executives to navigate complexity, lead with confidence, and drive meaningful change within their organizations and communities.
Together, Schulich ExecEd, OACP, and DeGroote are not only launching a program, but they are also reshaping the future of police leadership in Ontario. By combining academic excellence with real-world relevance, this partnership is building a stronger, more agile, and resilient public service equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow. The Certificate in Executive Leadership Program represents a bold and timely step forward in professionalizing police leadership, fostering innovation in public sector management, and empowering the next generation of leaders to lead with integrity, vision, and strategic purpose.
Participants will engage in hands-on learning and real-world case studies that focus on:
- Strengthening strategic agility and decision-making
- Cultivating a network of police leaders across Ontario
- Applying tested leadership solutions to real-world policing challenges
Graduates will leave with:
- Relevant professional leadership skills to inspire and mobilize their teams
- A cultivated network of peers, mentors, and thought leaders
- A tested framework for addressing complex organizational challenges
- A prestigious certificate credential from two of Canada’s top universities
As policing continues to evolve, so must its leaders. The Certificate in Executive Leadership Program offers a rare opportunity to invest in your future, elevate your leadership capacity, and join a community of forward-thinking professionals committed to excellence in public service.
Applications open soon! A registration link will be provided as soon as it becomes available.
Click HERE for the Certificate in Executive Leadership poster containing additional program information.
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Leaders from each partner organization share their enthusiasm for the program and its ability to shape the future of policing in Ontario:
“When we invest in developing the next generation of police leaders, we’re investing in the future safety and well-being of every community in Ontario. By giving today’s aspiring leaders, the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel, we’re building stronger police services. We’re proud to partner with two exceptional academic institutions to make this vision a reality — and to continue our commitment to leadership that makes a difference.”
— Paul Pedersen, Executive Director, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police
This program is a powerful step forward in shaping the future of police leadership across Ontario. By making senior leadership development more accessible to aspiring executives in policing, we’re investing in the next generation of changemakers. This is our commitment to develop leaders who will drive innovation, build trust, and strengthen the communities they serve. We’re proud to launch a program that empowers transformation in modern police services.”
— Rami Mayer, Executive Director, Schulich ExecEd
“Our team has been working directly with police organizations for several years to build leadership development programs that help them close skill gaps and achieve their organizational goals with officers and civilian staff. This program is an exciting next step to continue building strong leaders across our Ontario police services. By helping senior leaders access professional development programs tailored to their work, we are helping these individuals build resilient services and safer communities.”
— Dr. Dave Mammoliti, Director, Executive Programs, DeGroote School of Business
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