COVINGTON, KY – On Tuesday, August 22, the City of Covington made an announcement, naming Assistant Chief of Police of Operations Robert Nader to the Chief of Police position. Nader has served 20 years with the Covington Police Department.
Upon Chief Bryan Carter’s retirement, Nader will assume the Chief of Police position on September 1, 2017.
Chief Robert Nader stated, “I would like to thank the Mayor and City Commission for entrusting me with the responsibility to lead the men and women of the Covington Police Department. I am very humbled, honored, and excited to be appointed as Chief of Police of this great city.
“Growing up in Covington, I knew I wanted to be a police officer for my city. I don’t know if it was instilled in me by my teachers, my faith, or my parents, but I know I wanted to give back to the community and I could think of no more a noble way to do so than to be a police officer.
“I have been fortunate to attend training both in Kentucky and out-of-state. Through talking about our department with people from other agencies and communities, I know we have a highly trained and reputable department that is committed to excellence. My goal as chief is to keep the positive momentum going into the future and to be open to new ideas. I look forward to continuing to serve the City and our agency.”
Hired in January 1997, Nader has served in various capacities within the Covington Police Department, including: Bike Patrol Officer, Community Relations Officer, Detective, SWAT Negotiator, Narcotics/Vice Sergeant, FBI Safe Streets Task Force Officer, and Watch Commander (Shift Lieutenant).
Mayor Joseph U. Meyer stated, “Chief Carter has left large shoes to fill upon the announcement of his retirement; however, Assistant Chief Nader has proven throughout his impressive career with the City that he will offer excellent leadership for the Police Department.”
Additionally, Nader has served as the department’s Public Information Officer, SWAT Commander, Administrative Services/Accreditation Captain, Patrol Bureau Captain, LGBTQ Liaison, and most recently the Assistant Chief of Police over the Operations Division.
Chief Bryan Carter commended Nader, stating, “I am happy for the Covington Police Department and the City of Covington that Assistant Chief Nader was chosen as the next Covington Police Chief.
“Rob’s love of the City and his commitment to providing the very best public safety is shown day in and day out. Rob is a well-rounded individual and has served many roles during his 20 years with the City. It has been an honor serving with Rob and I wish him the very best.”
Interim City Manager Loren Wolff further elaborated, stating, “We look forward to Asst. Chief Nader’s transition into the Chief of Police role. Known for his service-focused work ethic and strategic thinking, Nader is extremely well-regarded by all levels of the Covington Police Department and the community.
“He has continuously exhibited his dedication to Covington and is a great fit for the position.”
Nader received his Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) in 1996, Bachelor of Elected Studies from Thomas More College in 2013, and a Master’s of Science, Executive Leadership Organizational Change, from NKU in 2015.
He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officer’s Course 120th Session in 2008 and Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy 262nd Session in 2015.
The City anticipates the Assistant Chief of Police of Operations position will be filled by the end of September 2017.