Chief Constable recruitment process

On Friday May 23, 2008, the recruitment process for Greater Manchester Police’s next Chief Constable will begin. On this date, an advert will appear in a national police publication (Police Review) highlighting the important vacancy.

The advert will state that applications will only be considered from candidates who have achieved the rank of Chief Constable.

This decision was made following expert service guidance and advice from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabularies (HMIC). It reflects the needs and challenges of one of the largest police forces in the country and the professional view that only an experienced Chief Constable or equivalent can fulfill this.

The closing date for applications is June 13. Under police regulations, the names of those who have applied must be submitted to the Home Office. Government officials will then return a shortlist of applicants the Authority is able to interview.

Interviews are expected to take place during July. They will be conducted by senior members of the police authority who will be advised by the Regional HMI Ken Williams, GMPA Chief Executive Barbara Spicer and GMPA Deputy Chief Executive Russell Bernstein.

The Authority anticipates an extremely strong field of candidates from which to make an appointment. In the meantime, David Whatton and his Command Team have the full support and confidence of the Authority.

Mr Whatton has led the force since the death of Michael Todd in March 2008. He has helped ensure Mr Todd’s legacy of making Greater Manchester a safer place has lived on and has been both publicly and privately thanked for his excellent leadership during challenging times.

Date article online: 08/05/2008