Commissioner Zoë Metcalfe announces plans for Chief Constable Recruitment

This follows the announcement of the forthcoming retirement of Chief Constable Lisa Winward, whose departure will leave the role vacant from next March.

As the single elected individual with responsibility for the totality of policing, fire and crime in York and North Yorkshire, the Commissioner is responsible for appointing the Chief Constable and holding them to account for delivery.

Following a consultation period with key stakeholders, including His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary & Fire and Rescue Services, The College of Policing and The Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, Commissioner Metcalfe has decided to make a full public announcement about the recruitment plans she will put in place.

Zoë Metcalfe said:

“Following Lisa Winward’s decision to retire on 31 March 2024, I am keen to commence the recruitment process to ensure an appointment is made to take over the reins from Chief Constable Winward. This will ensure that North Yorkshire Police has inspirational, visionary and stable leadership at the helm providing strategic and operational leadership and resilience at a vital time for North Yorkshire Police”

“Whilst the decision is mine, I have not reached it without full and frank input from those who are qualified to advise me. In consultation with key national and local stakeholders, I am satisfied that it is in the public interest to launch the recruitment process. “

Commissioner Metcalfe added “on behalf of the public I am determined that York and North Yorkshire should have the exemplary police service that they need and deserve. That’s why it is in the public’s best interests to get the process underway as soon as possible.”

“The opportunity to lead North Yorkshire Police as its next Chief Constable is an immensely exciting prospect for an inspirational police leader. I will leave no stone unturned to ensure that we have the strongest possible field of candidates, to take part in a rigorous process of selection. Candidates will have the opportunity to demonstrate to a wide range of stakeholders, that they should be North Yorkshire’s next Chief Constable.“

Announcement of the detailed recruitment prospectus and timeline will follow shortly.

In accordance with the Commissioner’s direction, the process will stringently follow the best practice standards as set out in the College of Policing Guidance. This will include extensive stakeholder involvement by partner organisations, specialist recruitment consultancy by the College of Policing, and the full involvement of independent advice, guidance and quality assurance.

Read Commissioner Zoë’s full Decision Notice here: https://www.northyorkshire-pfcc.gov.uk/decision-notices/dn-09-2023-chief-constable-vacancy/