RFP Marketing and/or Advertising Company for SPD

The City of Syracuse Police Department is seeking a marketing and advertising partner to address acute staffing shortages by launching a targeted recruitment campaign for new police officers. Facing challenges from declining applicant numbers and the unpredictable timing of civil service exams—offered only twice yearly with just four to six weeks of advance notice for registration—the department requires a responsive, pre-planned communications strategy that can activate immediately upon exam announcement. The ideal vendor will develop and deploy cohesive, professional outreach across digital, print, and traditional media channels designed to reach diverse communities across the region and inspire qualified candidates to pursue a career in law enforcement with SPD. The solicitation, identified as 27-062, was posted on July 12, 2026, with proposals due by August 7, 2026, and is open to firms capable of executing high-impact branding and recruitment initiatives under tight deadlines. The Department, operating under the State of New York, emphasizes the need for culturally aware messaging that reflects the city’s demographics and aligns with modern recruitment standards. The primary point of contact is Lieutenant Dallas Pelz, with Assistant Director of Purchase Laura Padgett serving as secondary contact, and all inquiries and submissions must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the public procurement portal. The contract aims to establish a reliable, long-term partnership to sustain recruitment momentum despite systemic barriers in officer hiring cycles.