Nelson Corteway
Belmont,CA
Summary
Public safety executive with over 30 years of leadership in law enforcement and emergency management. Expertise in strategic planning, technology integration, and community engagement, resulting in enhanced stakeholder collaboration. Proven track record in developing innovative solutions and interagency partnerships, achieving measurable outcomes in high-pressure situations. Currently enhancing emergency preparedness and resilience for San Mateo County through strategic initiatives and community-focused programs.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Manager
San Mateo County - Emergency Management
Redwood City, California
09.2025 - Current
- Coordinated emergency operations and managed 24/7 duty officer program for continuous situational awareness.
- Led technology initiatives to bolster resilience and promote interagency collaboration.
- Ensured seamless resource integration for coastal communities, enhancing emergency management effectiveness countywide.
- Developed operational plans for disaster preparedness and recovery efforts.
- Evaluated operational processes, recommending improvements to increase efficiency.
- Facilitated coordinated emergency response across multiple agencies and departments, ensuring effective collaboration.
- Implemented strategies to improve communication and resource sharing during emergencies.
- Streamlined operations by analyzing existing protocols and integrating best practices.
Chief of Police
Town of Hillsborough
Hillsborough, CA
04.2023 - 09.2025
- Provided strategic leadership and direction to a police department of 38 employees (28 sworn officers, 10 civilian staff)
- Oversaw all departmental operations, including law enforcement, crime prevention, community engagement, and emergency preparedness
- Administered and managed an $11 million annual budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation
- Developed and implemented departmental policies, procedures, and training programs aligned with best practices and evolving industry standards
- Fostered a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement within the department
- Served as the primary liaison between the police department and the community, building and maintaining strong relationships with residents and community organizations
- Collaborated with outside law enforcement agencies on regional initiatives.
- Advised city government officials on matters related to public safety.
Police Captain
Town of Hillsborough
Hillsborough, CA
01.2019 - 01.2023
- Commanded and oversaw the daily operations of the Support Services and Patrol + Operations divisions
- Provided leadership, mentorship, and professional development to subordinate supervisors and officers
- Ensured effective deployment of personnel and resources to address crime trends, community needs, and critical incidents
- Monitored and evaluated divisional performance, implementing data-driven strategies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
- Oversaw complex investigations, ensuring thoroughness, adherence to legal standards, and successful case resolution
Police Lieutenant
Town of Hillsborough
Hillsborough, CA
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Oversaw the Investigations Bureau, responsible for all criminal investigations conducted by the police department
- Managed departmental social media presence and community outreach programs
- Served as Acting Captain for both the Patrol Division and Administrative Services Division, demonstrating adaptability and leadership in diverse operational areas
- Directly responsible for the recruitment, hiring, and training of new officers and nonsworn staff
- Key Project: Served as Incident Commander for high-profile political events, coordinating directly with the United States Secret Service to ensure the safety of VIPs
Police Officer/Inspector/Corporal/Sergeant
Town of Hillsborough
Hillsborough, CA
01.1996 - 01.2015
- Progressed through increasing levels of responsibility, serving as Patrol Officer, Evidence Technician, Field Training Officer, and Supervisor
- Gained extensive experience in patrol operations, criminal investigations, evidence collection, training, and community engagement
- Demonstrated strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while consistently exceeding performance expectations
- Key contributions included the creation and implementation of our social media platform and press information program
- Was responsible for all media relations and public information
SWAT Team Operator
North Central San Mateo Regional SWAT
San Mateo, CA
01.2001 - 01.2007
- Responded to high-risk incidents, including hostage situations, barricaded suspects, and other critical events requiring specialized tactical response
Education
Master of Public Administration -
Notre Dame de Namur University
Belmont, CA01.2002
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA01.1996
Skills
- Law enforcement expertise
- Risk assessment
- Crisis management
- Strategic planning
- Investigative skills
- Public safety
- Training development
- Emergency response
- Tactical operations
- Media relations
- Collaborative approach
- Strategic leadership
- Special events coordination
- Crime prevention
- Community engagement
- Emergency management
Timeline
Operations Manager
San Mateo County - Emergency Management
09.2025 - Current
Chief of Police
Town of Hillsborough
04.2023 - 09.2025
Police Captain
Town of Hillsborough
01.2019 - 01.2023
Police Lieutenant
Town of Hillsborough
01.2015 - 01.2019
SWAT Team Operator
North Central San Mateo Regional SWAT
01.2001 - 01.2007
Police Officer/Inspector/Corporal/Sergeant
Town of Hillsborough
01.1996 - 01.2015
Master of Public Administration -
Notre Dame de Namur University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of the Pacific