A second and final set of sergeants began a two-week training in leadership and management specifically geared to support the work of that rank within the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.
Commissioner of Police Mark Collins said that the Force is seeking to provide the skill sets necessary for the rank to operate efficiently.
“Sergeant rank is vital to the day-to-day function of the Force. Yet, officers of this rank have been promoted and asked to do a job without a job description or the prerequisite skills. We have made it a priority to provide the essential leadership and managerial skills to fulfill their roles with competence and greater confidence,” the Commissioner noted.
Several sergeants have expressed that they now have a far greater understanding of the need for change in the Force’s culture, of their roles as supervisors, the importance of teamwork, and the benefits of quality leadership in enhancing the organisation.
The two-week course, facilitated by Instructor Darby Allen, former U.K. officer and certified trainer, covers many subjects including interview skills for supervisors, communication skills, transaction and transformation management skills and conflict resolution. The practical training will ultimately provide an overall improvement in the service provided to the public.