West Yorkshire chief constable to remain for further three years
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin has confirmed that the chief constable is to remain in office for a further three years to “provide stability” during a time of national uncertainty.
John Robins QPM has more than 32 years local service in West Yorkshire and will now undertake the role until 2027.
He is currently contracted until 2024, but to “provide certainty and stability”, the mayor confirmed on Monday (November 28) that she has asked him to commit to an additional three years.
Ms Brabin said West Yorkshire Police has “performed exceptionally” under his leadership, having been graded as both ‘outstanding’ and ‘good’ by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services in November 2021.
The force was also one of only five in the country to achieve ‘Outstanding’ for crime-recording accuracy.
Ms Brabin said: “In spite of unrelenting government spending cuts, West Yorkshire Police’s Chief Constable John Robins has continued to navigate the force through the many challenges it faced with sheer professionalism.
“He has embraced our priorities, including keeping women and girls safe, while championing diversity.
“Under his guidance and leadership, West Yorkshire has become one of the best performing police forces in the country and it is so important that we sustain these high standards.”
Mr Robins said: “I am honoured that the mayor has extended my appointment as the chief constable of West Yorkshire Police.
“I remain resolute in my determination to keep improving policing across West Yorkshire.
“I am also committed to supporting the professional and dedicated police officers, staff and volunteers who make up West Yorkshire Police.”
Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Alison Lowe OBE, added: “Now more than ever, we need experience at the helm, bringing stability during a time of much national uncertainty.
“The chief constable fully understands the mayor’s priorities, as well as the expectations of our communities, and I know he is working hard alongside partners to ensure continued progress.
“Although there is still a significant way to go, the force is also making positive strides in recruiting a more diverse workforce, at a rate higher than the national average, which I personally welcome.”