Job Search Status
Open to workDesired start date: Open to discussion
Desired Job Title
Chief of PoliceCity ManagerSecurity ConsultantSafety ManagerWork Type
Full TimeLocation Preference
On-SiteHybridOpen to relocation: Yes
Open To Work
Mizel Garcia
Albuquerque,NM
Work Preference
Summary
Strategic and transformative law enforcement leader with extensive experience in policy development, crisis management, and high-level operational performance. Successfully directed organizational and departmental operations to improve community engagement and reduce crime, while managing budgets effectively to ensure resource optimization.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Chief of Police
Española Police Department
Espanola, NM
04.2022 - 04.2026
- Developed and implemented departmental policies and procedures for effective policing.
- Evaluated departmental performance metrics to enhance service delivery effectiveness.
- Managed budget allocations and resource distribution for operational efficiency.
- Directed all departmental operations to reduce crime, enhance community engagement, and improve public trust.
- Ensured operational readiness through effective staffing, training, and resource allocation.
City Manager
City of Espanola
Espanola
01.2026 - 04.2026
- Oversaw city operations and strategic planning for community development initiatives.
- Developed policies addressing public safety, health, and environmental concerns in the city.
- Maintained full compliance with city ordinances and state and federal governments applicable to city operations.
- Presented regular reports on the financial condition of the municipality at City Council meetings.
- Appointed and oversaw department heads with a hands-on approach to leadership.
Commander / Lieutenant
Albuquerque Police Department
Albuquerque, USA
05.2015 - 01.2022
- Supervised investigative and tactical divisions addressing organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and violent offenders.
- Supervised high-profile and significant police operations and ensured adherence to department policies.
- Developed and implemented policies, procedures, and training programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Collaborated with federal, state, and local agencies to enhance law enforcement partnerships and strategies.
Sergeant / Task Force Officer / Detective / Officer
Albuquerque Police Department
Albuquerque, USA
06.1994 - 04.2015
- Coordinated joint operations with federal and state law enforcement agencies to disrupt narcotics and organized crime activities.
- Organized and executed undercover surveillance operations while ensuring compliance with confidentiality policies for ongoing investigations.
- Received multiple commendations, to include the DEA Achievement Award and Albuquerque PD Medal of Outstanding Service, recognizing exceptional performance.
- Certified Master Instructor in crisis intervention, hostage negotiations, undercover operations, and critical incident response, enhancing training standards.
Education
FBI National Academy Leadership Course - Class #273
Quantico, VA10-2018
FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association - 128th Supervisor Leadership Institute
07-2015
Master of Arts - Public Administration
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM07-2014
International Association of Chiefs of Police - Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO)
IACP
10-2013
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM05-1986
Associate of Arts - Military Science
New Mexico Military Institute
Roswell, NM05-1983
Skills
- Law enforcement operations
- Risk assessment
- Crisis management
- Policy development
- Strategic planning
- Budget management
- Team management
- Decision making
- Communication skills
Languages
Spanish
Proficient (C2)
C2
Timeline
City Manager
City of Espanola
01.2026 - 04.2026
Chief of Police
Española Police Department
04.2022 - 04.2026
Commander / Lieutenant
Albuquerque Police Department
05.2015 - 01.2022
Sergeant / Task Force Officer / Detective / Officer
Albuquerque Police Department
06.1994 - 04.2015
FBI National Academy Leadership Course - Class #273
FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association - 128th Supervisor Leadership Institute
Master of Arts - Public Administration
University of New Mexico
International Association of Chiefs of Police - Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO)
IACP
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of New Mexico
Associate of Arts - Military Science
New Mexico Military Institute
Certification
- Top Secret Security Clearance
Boards And Affiliations
- New Mexico Law Enforcement Standards and Training Council, Municipal Chief Board Member
- New Mexico State Board of Psychologist Examiners, Board Member
- New Mexico Association of Chiefs
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- Española/Rio Arriba E-911 Board of Directors, Chairman
- City of Española Public Safety Committee
- Blue Thunder Foundation Board (Non-profit organization)
- Rio Arriba DWI Planning Council
Leadership Philosophy
I believe effective leadership is rooted in integrity, transparency, and collaboration. As a leader, I prioritize employee wellness, professional development, and proactive engagement with the community. My philosophy emphasizes both modern policing and business strategies that balance goal accomplishment with compassion and respect for all individuals.
Boards And Affiliations
- New Mexico Law Enforcement Standards and Training Council, Municipal Chief Board Member
- New Mexico State Board of Psychologist Examiners, Board Member
- New Mexico Association of Chiefs
- International Association of Chiefs of Police
- Española/Rio Arriba E-911 Board of Directors, Chairman
- City of Española Public Safety Committee
- Blue Thunder Foundation Board (Non-profit organization)
- Rio Arriba DWI Planning Council