Tayside chief constable due for Humberside move

The police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Humberside is set to announce the appointment of the first female chief constable in the force’s history.

Justine Curran has been chief constable of Tayside Police since 2009, but her position was due to be abolished as the eight Scottish forces merge into a single national unit on April 1. The decision is due to be ratified at a meeting of Humberside’s Police and Crime Panel on February 15.

Born in Sheffield, Ms Curran previously served both Merseyside and Greater Manchester Police (GMP), where she rose to become assistant chief constable and held responsibility for the Counter Terrorist Unit. She moved to Scotland to join Tayside as deputy chief constable before being promoted to the top job.

After hearing of her unanimous selection ahead of two other candidates, Ms Curran said she was “delighted” to be selected.

“I look forward to moving to the area with my family and getting down to work in this important and challenging role,” she said.

Matthew Grove, the Conservative Humberside PCC, praised the leadership skills of Ms Curran, with her varied practical experience a key factor in her appointment.

“I am delighted to have secured the services of an outstanding leader with a proven track record,” he said.

“Justine clearly brings sound experience as an existing chief constable, having worked in some extremely challenging areas of the country.”

Ms Curran will move south to replace Tim Hollis, who retires after eight years as chief constable at Humberside. He offered his congratulations to his successor, adding her time leading Tayside and serving in busy forces would keep Humberside Police in good hands.

“As a serving chief in her own right, Justine understands the demands of leading a modern police force and managing the complex challenges we face,” he said.

John Blanchard, chair of the Humberside Police Federation, also welcomed the appointment, saying he looked forward to working with Ms Curran.