Jim Barker-McCardle’s retirement

Nick Alston pays tribute to Jim Barker-McCardle.

CHIEF CONSTABLE JIM BARKER-MCCARDLE

After I was elected last November and agreed with our Chief Constable, Jim Barker-McCardle, that he would serve until 3 May, that day – happily –  seemed a way off. It has however raced towards us and today we say goodbye to Jim and wish him the very best for a long and fulfilling retirement.  Jim has been a deeply thoughtful, caring and committed Chief Constable respected by his peers and by the many groups with whom Essex Police work to deliver joined up criminal justice for the county. 

It has been a tough period with the need for Jim to deliver significant savings and efficiencies. He has managed the strain on Essex Police with firmness and determination, but also with compassion. Never a well-funded force, he led his team to meet the savings targets asked of Essex Police with imaginative and bold policies including the ground breaking collaboration arrangements with Kent Police. It has been a demanding period for the force, but there are strong signs that after the hard pruning, the commitment and enthusiasm of the police officers and staff led by Jim are regaining any ground lost and moving ahead strongly. 

Well done Jim and very best wishes.