Governor Kehoe Appoints Transition Director to Oversee Implementation of St. Louis City Board of Police Commissioners

JUNE 13, 2025

Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Derek Winters as the Transition Director to assist in the implementation of oversight of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) to a citizen-led board of police commissioners, as authorized under House Bill (HB) 495.

In this role, Winters will work closely with City of St. Louis officials, the SLMPD, the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of the Governor to ensure an orderly and responsible transition to the citizen-led board, which will assume control no later than July 1, 2026. His efforts will focus on the practical steps needed to ensure continuity of operations and minimize any disruptions to the residents of the City of St. Louis.

"As someone born and raised in the City of St. Louis and brought up in the police family, I care deeply about the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the City’s future," said Governor Kehoe. "This transition team requires leadership rooted in accountability, professionalism, and a clear sense of purpose. Derek brings all of that, and we are confident in his ability as a highly skilled operations professional to help build a strong foundation for the board and its long-term role in public safety."

Derek Winters, a St. Louis City native, currently serves as Chief Operating Officer at KNOWiNK, a leading election technology firm. His professional background includes leadership roles in the private and public sectors, including prior service as a commissioner on the St. Louis City Board of Elections and board chair of Saint Louis Makes. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and a Master of Arts in International Affairs from Washington University in St. Louis.

"This is a pivotal moment for the City of St. Louis," said Winters. "It is an honor to support the process of building a board that supports our men and women in uniform, reflects the City’s values, and is equipped to meet its responsibilities from the start."

While selection of the board is well-underway, Winters will lead strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and operational development needed to prepare for the board’s assumption of authority.

Under HB 495, the board of police commissioners will consist of six members to guide SLMPD’s leadership and direction: the Mayor of St. Louis and five individuals appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Governor Kehoe will announce the appointments of these members in the coming weeks.

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