Photo: McBoat Photography
Cole: What do you believe to be the most important piece of advice for a leader to follow? Thomas: First, I would say “know your why”. Being committed to making a positive difference drives all my actions and whenever times get tough, I reflect on my “why”. Second, surround yourself with people who have diverse lived experiences to ensure you are considering how your decisions will impact all those you serve. Cole: How can you inspire others while also maintaining that you continue to be inspired by Denver Police’s mission? Thomas: The Denver Police Department’s mission is rooted in the trust and authority bestowed upon us by those we serve. We are here to serve the entire community, and it’s essential for our officers and professional staff to
always remember that. By upholding the highest standards of conduct and accountability, we strive to be the department that the community expects and deserves. Cole: How do you prioritize work-life balance, and what advice do you have for junior professionals who are struggling to find balance? Thomas: As Chief, I am always on the go. Nevertheless, I do find opportunities to decompress, which include starting my day early in mental and physical exercise, playing golf and going to watch various sporting events live. I also find great joy in attending community events, which provide me opportunities to engage with all those we serve. I find these events to be extremely fulfilling both personally and professionally.
21 The Acumen
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