POLICE and crime commissioner David Keane has launched a campaign to find a new chief constable to succeed Simon Byrne, who was suspended last year accused of bullying and intimidating staff.
While a verdict from a gross misconduct hearing which took place in Warrington into Mr Byrne’s actions is still awaited, his contract with Cheshire Police has now lapsed and a new chief constable is being sought.
Warrington based Janette McCormick has held the post of acting chief constable with the force since Mr Byrne’s suspension.
Mr Keane says he is looking to recruit a leader who shares his vision and values and can deliver the highest quality policing services for residents in Cheshire.
David said: “Cheshire Constabulary is a top performing police service which has consistently achieved positive ratings from HMICRFS and has, what I believe to be, the best group of police officers, staff, specials and volunteers in the country.
“As the county’s police and crime commissioner, I am fully committed to ensuring Cheshire remains one of the safest counties in the country and I am looking for an exceptional individual who shares this vision.
“I want to work with our new chief constable to build on our strong foundations and tackle head on the complex and challenging environment in which modern day policing is operating.
“The new chief constable must have the passion and necessary skills to work with me to establish a policing culture which promotes innovation, is compassionate to both our residents and its staff and seeks to make the most out of our highly valued partnerships.”
The commissioner will hold an engagement day for candidates who wish to consider applying for the role. This will provide an opportunity for candidates to find out more about the commissioner’s vision for policing in Cheshire and raise any questions they may have regarding the process or the role.
“Policing is more challenging and complex than ever and I need a chief constable who recognises this and is able operate effectively in an environment of diminishing resources. The new chief constable must be up for that challenge and must be committed to delivering the best police service for our residents and the communities of Cheshire”, added David.
Applicants will face a rigorous recruitment process, which is being carried out in accordance with the College of Policing guidance on the appointment of chief officers. It will include an interview with a panel made up of representatives from partner organisations across the county.
The appointment of the new chief constable will be subject to a confirmation hearing in front of Cheshire’s Police and Crime Panel.
The deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday 12 December 2018.
The application pack for the role is now available on the Cheshire PCC website https://www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/news/news/vacancy-chief-constable/
