The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) for Essex is seeking to appoint an outstanding Chief Constable to lead Essex Police to continue to deliver the ambitions set out in the Police and Crime Plan 2024–2028.

Essex is a diverse, dynamic and growing county. The PFCC has set a clear and ambitious direction for policing: To reduce crime by 40 per cent from its peak during his term, to strengthen visible and accessible local policing and build safer, more confident communities through prevention, partnership working and innovation.

The Role

The successful candidate will:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to one of the largest and most innovative police forces in the country.


• Deliver priorities to reduce crime, tackle anti-social behaviour, serious violence, drugs and county lines and protect communities from harm.


• Drive a strong focus on prevention, early intervention and data-driven policing, ensuring resources are targeted where they will make the greatest difference.


• Champion visible, accessible neighbourhood policing and strengthen public confidence and trust.


• Ensure victims and vulnerable people, including women and girls, receive an outstanding service and protection.


• Continue to increase solved outcomes for high harm crimes, including rape, serious sexual assault and drug-related knife crime.


• Embrace technology and digital innovation, using evidence-based approaches to improve efficiency, effectiveness and justice outcomes.


• Deepen collaboration with the fire and rescue service, local authorities, health services, criminal justice partners, the voluntary sector and communities.

The Person

To succeed in this role, the successful candidate will be:

• A values-based, inspirational leader who role models the highest standards of ethics, professionalism and integrity and demonstrates commitment to improving the culture of policing.


• An innovator who is experienced in leading change and modernising policing in a complex and demanding environment.


• A proven, operationally credible leader who can translate strategic vision into measurable outcomes that reduce crime and harm.


• A confident and authentic communicator who engages effectively with the public, partners, officers, staff and volunteers.


• A leader who is passionate about developing people, wellbeing and organisational culture, ensuring Essex Police remains an inclusive employer of choice where everyone feels valued and included.

Appointment Process

The appointment will be made in accordance with statutory requirements and will be subject to a confirmation hearing by the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Panel. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set out in the College of Policing Guidance for the appointment of Chief Officers and relevant legislation which is available on request.

Next Steps

Further information about the role, Essex Police, and how to apply, can be found on our microsite at https://essexpolice.gs-attract.com/.

If, having read the information, you would like an informal, confidential conversation, please contact our recruitment partner, GatenbySanderson and speak to Peter Buffoni on 07964 877 654, or Duncan Collins on 07586 705475 or by emailing duncan.collins@gatenbysanderson.com

The strict closing date and time for receipt of applications is 09:30hrs on Friday 29 May 2026.

Apply Here on the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex website >>