Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford has launched a search for the new Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police.
PCC Mark Shelford | Photo © Mark Shelford / Conservative Party
The Chief Constable has overall responsibility for leading the force, creating a vision and setting direction and culture that builds public and organisational confidence.
The new Chief Constable will lead Avon and Somerset Police, the 8th largest police force, in regards to workforce numbers in England and Wales, comprising 3,020 police officers, 345 PCSOs and 2,690 police staff in addition to controlling an annual budget of approximately £340 million.
PCC Mark Shelford said: “This is a crucial appointment. The police officers and staff in Avon and Somerset are dedicated and hardworking, and I am looking for a Chief Constable that can enhance their considerable efforts and skills.
“Since being elected in May 2021, I have been developing my Police and Crime Plan to meet the commitments I made to local people.
“The new Chief Constable will be vital in delivering the Plan’s priorities and objectives and, to do this, the successful candidate will need to be strong, resilient and dynamic.
“I want a leader who is able to inspire their workforce and can meet the needs of the different communities across this geographically diverse area.
“I am keen to attract a varied field of robust and innovative candidates to appoint an excellent Chief Constable.
“I would encourage any eligible Chief Officer to consider applying for this important role and be part of an organisation who is passionate about delivering an outstanding police service to local people.”
The PCC is inviting applications from Chief Constables, Deputy Chief Constables, Assistant Chief Constables and all equivalent ranks through England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The successful applicant will already have a proven track record of strong leadership and effective leadership.
The Chief Constable is held to account by the PCC for the operational delivery of policing services, including the effective command and leadership of the policing response to crime, and major and critical incidents.
They are also responsible for influencing the development of regional and national policing and could be accountable for national operations or standard setting.
The appointment of the Chief Constable is one of the key responsibilities for any PCC.
The process that they use to do this is strictly regulated and will follow the best practice guidance from the national College of Policing.
Full details of the selection process are available on the OPCC website here. It will conclude with the selection of the Chief Constable in early November.
The appointment will be subject to a confirmation hearing with the Police and Crime Panel.
