Wanted: chief constable

The search for Scotland’s next Chief Constable is under way.
Sir Stephen House who is standing down and Police Scotland's Chief Constable.Sir Stephen House who is standing down and Police Scotland's Chief Constable.
Sir Stephen House who is standing down and Police Scotland's Chief Constable.

The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) has launched its recruitment programme in the wake of Sir Stephen House’s decision to step down from Police Scotland.

Launching the recruitment campaign, Andrew Flanagan, chairman of the SPA, admitted there were things the authority needed to improve and that there were challenges too, so: “I want the new chief to develop a working environment that will inspire and energise officers and staff to deliver services in new and flexible ways, and with the active participation of local communities.”

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Mr Flanage said that authority was looking for “an exceptional leader to take forward the next phase of police service transformation in Scotland.”

“With homicide rates at their lowest levels and recorded crime at a 41 year low, the new chief will have a strong platform on which to develop innovative solutions to the prevention and detection of crime.”

But, he warned: “This is a job that is under a bright and sustained public spotlight. That comes with the territory but it brings opportunities too. I am looking for someone to positively use that place in the public eye. To become one of the most influential public sector leaders in Scotland and champion the kind of partnerships that really improve outcomes for people.

Police Scotland’s new chief constable is expected by announced by early December.