Lincolnshire chief constable leaving to take up ‘new challenge’ with the NPCC
The chief constable of Lincolnshire Police will be leaving the force in February to take up an “unexpected opportunity” with the National Police Chiefs’ Council as the UK coordinator tackling serious and organised crime.
Following a policing career spanning more than 32 years, Chris Haward said it was time for a “new challenge”.
He said: “It is with a great deal of sadness that I have decided to move on from Lincolnshire. This has been an immensely difficult decision as I have loved the last three years in Lincolnshire and am immensely proud to have been chief constable in this time.
“I did not expect to be leaving Lincolnshire at this point, but an unexpected opportunity has arisen and it’s time for a new challenge.
“Since I joined policing, I have either been on the front line or helping to deliver day-to-day policing, and during the last three years in Lincolnshire I have put focus on the day-to-day culture and wellbeing that runs through the force, with the aim to make sure we deliver the highest possible standard of policing to our communities.
“I think, and hope, that has made a positive impact.
“It’s time now for me to try something new and the national role tackling serious and organised crime coordination focuses on coordinating the response across all police forces, and partner agencies, to counter the most serious threats from organised crime groups.
“I’m really proud to have served as chief constable in Lincolnshire Police and of the people who serve in this force.
“I have enjoyed a positive and productive working relationship with police and crime commissioner Marc Jones and I am very grateful for his support over the last three years.
“It’s been a privilege to be chief constable here in Lincolnshire. I have a few months yet to go so will make sure to carry on with the day job until then and will save my goodbyes for closer to my actual leaving date.”
Mr Jones said: “I am sad to see the chief move on from his role in Lincolnshire but understand what a fantastic opportunity the new role presents for him.
“Chris has been a dedicated, committed, hard working chief and has done fantastic work in Lincolnshire. Not only did he see the force through the huge challenge of transitioning away from the G4S contract he has worked tirelessly to create a police force equipped to tackle modern crime and to keep our communities safe.
“I wish him all the very best in his new prestigious position and know he will bring a great deal of experience and expertise to a really important national role.”