University Police Chief George Aylward is the leading contender for police chief in Eugene, Ore.

Eugene City Manager Dennis Taylor said through a spokeswoman Friday that Aylward’s experience put him above 52 other candidates during the city’s six-month search.

Aylward, 63, has served posts around the world from Albania and Liberia to New York, according to a press release from the city of Eugene.

Aylward told Eugene-based newspaper The Register Guard he’s looking forward to a better climate and an interesting job opportunity.

Following several background checks, Aylward could be approved for the position in the next 30 days.

Aylward could not be reached for comment Friday.