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Two police officers patrolling Southend

The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex, Roger Hirst, has today launched the recruitment process to appoint the next Chief Constable of Essex Police.

The national search begins at a pivotal time for policing, with significant reform underway and growing demand on police services, set against a backdrop of devolution and local government reorganisation.

Essex Police serves a population of 1.9 million people and manages a budget of more than £400 million, making it one of the largest and most complex policing environments in the country.

Applications are now open. Further details can be found at: Essex Police |

PFCC Roger Hirst said: “The Chief Constable of Essex Police is one of the most significant leadership roles in policing today.

“Essex is a diverse and ambitious county, and this is an opportunity for an outstanding leader to build on strong progress and guide the force through the next phase of policing reform.

“The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering the priorities set out in my Police and Crime Plan 2024–2026, including strengthening neighbourhood policing, protecting vulnerable people, and continuing to drive down crime.

“I encourage candidates with the experience, integrity and ambition to lead at this level to come forward.”

The new Chief Constable will be responsible for leading the force to deliver key priorities, including:

  • Visible, accessible neighbourhood policing
  • Tackling anti-social behaviour and serious violence
  • Protecting vulnerable people
  • Addressing violence against women and girls

The role would suit an experienced, values-driven leader with a strong track record of operational delivery, organisational change and partnership working.

The vacancy follows the announcement that current Chief Constable BJ Harrington will retire after serving 36 years as a police officer, including eight years as Chief Constable of Essex Police.