FDLE - Executive Leadership Seminar

Executive Leadership Seminar

Before completing the online application, qualified applicants must prepare the following documents:

ESL Class 13 Application Link - Open February 13, 2026, through April 3, 2026

About this Program:

The Executive Leadership Seminar (ELS) serves as a vital link between the Senior Leadership Program and the Chief Executive Seminar. Designed for upper‑level leaders (typically Captains and above within Florida criminal justice agencies) the ELS provides a continuing education forum focused on strengthening and advancing leadership skills. The program emphasizes high‑quality leadership and the capacity to drive meaningful organizational change. Delivered across three sessions, each centered on a distinct leadership dimension, the seminar explores topics such as crisis communication, critical thinking, proactive leadership, organizational management, resilience, emotional intelligence, and servant leadership.

For additional information on the ELS, please contact Tammy Frick, Program Administrator, at (850) 410-7534.

Qualifications:

Occupy a criminal justice management position which includes full-time, permanent supervision of others (see 4th bullet below for related details);

Occupy a position which influences agency policy, or impacts operations of the organization;

Provide an employment history of progressing supervisory, management, and leadership responsibilities;

Currently hold the rank or position of supervising mid-level management personnel; two levels of management subordinate to current position/rank (typically the third tier of an organization, usually just under the second in command);

Intend to remain in criminal justice for at least five years following completion of the seminar;

Complete the Applicant Statement of Commitment; and

Have the written endorsement of the agency Chief Executive.

Program Outline

SESSION 1 - MANAGING ORGANIZATIONS
Successful leaders must be willing to embrace change as well as take on the burden of authority. In this session an emphasis will be given on how to manage smarter and with intentionality. The session will close with a discussion on preparing to become the head of an agency.

SESSION 2 - SUCCEEDING THROUGH CHALLENGES
It is evident that every organization will face challenges. How an organization responds to those challenges will depend upon how well they have prepared. This session will focus on the importance of effective communication and performing well while under pressure. How to maintain a balance both professionally and personally to ensure effectiveness within the organization will also be discussed.

SESSION 3 - LEADING INTO THE FUTURE
In this session an emphasis will be placed on preparing and supporting future law enforcement leaders. The meaning of interpersonal communication and behavior skills will be considered in the role they play in successful leading. The importance of emotional intelligence and servant leadership will wrap up the final session.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Priorities

FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. To learn more about these areas, read our Statement of Agency Organization and Operation or visit our Open Government page.