Two new deputies appointed at Police Scotland
The Scottish Police Authority (SPA) has confirmed the appointment of two new deputy chief constables at Police Scotland.
Alan Speirs, current T/deputy chief constable, and Bex Smith, assistant chief constable, both currently with Police Scotland, will take up their new permanent posts on Monday March 11.
The SPA said the appointments followed a “robust selection and recruitment process” and fill vacancies following the retirement of Fiona Taylor earlier this month, and the impending retirement of Malcolm Graham in April.
It said the appointments have been made in accordance with the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.
Announcing the appointments on Thursday (February 29), SPA chair Martyn Evans, who interviewed candidates as chair of the selection panel, said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Speirs and Bex Smith to the rank of deputy chief constable with Police Scotland.
“Both officers have a wealth of senior and operational skills and experience to support the chief constable to lead and drive the next important phase of police reform.
“I was struck by the quality of senior officers we have in Police Scotland as we went through this very demanding selection process. We are very fortunate to have such a cadre of talented and professional police officers in Scotland.”
Police Scotland’s Chief Constable Jo Farrell added: “I congratulate Bex and Alan on their promotions. They are outstanding leaders and I’m grateful to them for stepping forward as we progress a new phase of police reform. I thank all the high-quality candidates who participated in a competitive and rigorous selection process.”
As deputy chief constables of Police Scotland, they will earn a salary of £203,717. The appointments will be for a fixed term of four years with the possibility of extension in accordance with legislation.
The SPA said it will launch a recruitment process for assistant chief constables in March to fill the vacancies presented by these promotions.