Superintendent Don MacLean has held various positions in the Halifax Regional Police, from his beginnings as a beat cop to his current assignment as the Officer in Charge of Human Resources. First promoted to Sergeant as a shift supervisor, he then became the first Equity Diversity Officer in the history of Halifax Regional Police. In this position, he was instrumental in the organization’s response to Nova Scotia Human Right’s Commission inquiry relating to Kirk Johnson. In this role, Supt MacLean cultivated significant experience in areas of training, community outreach, recruitment and dispute resolution. He also developed and delivered extensive training in diversity related matters in the policing environment as well as leading efforts pertaining to inclusive police recruitment practices.
Promoted to Staff Sergeant and assigned as the Divisional Commander of East Division in 2007, Supt MacLean provided strategic leadership with a strong and dedicated focus on crime reduction through targeted enforcement and proactive engagement. During this time, East Division saw a steady decline in violent crime statistics and Supt MacLean attained his current rank while in this position.
In 2011, he became the Executive Officer to the Chief of Police, serving under two successive Chiefs. He served as the Disciplinary Authority until his current assignment and has lead the vital office of Professional Standards. Supt MacLean oversaw the creation of the Office of Internal Oversight and has successfully assumed acting rank duties for both the Deputy and Chief positions. He was transferred to Administration Division in May of 2015, as the Officer in Charge of Human Resources responsible for approximately 800 employees.
Supt MacLean attended the University of King’s College and has continued his education through St Mary’s University Executive and Professional Development, Dalhousie College of Continuing Education, Canadian Police College and the Simon Wiesenthal Center. A life-long resident of Halifax, Don also serves on the Board of Directors for St John Ambulance, Community Justice Society and The Africville Heritage Trust Society.