Sussex Police starts search for next chief constable

The search is on for a new top cop for Sussex – with the successful candidate in line for a salary of £150,000 a year.

After the retirement of Sussex Police chief constable Martin Richards, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne has started looking for his successor.

Applications are now being accepted and a decision will be made in time for a key meeting at the end of June.

The advert asks: “Are you a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Sussex, its people and police force?”

It adds: “The successful candidate will be a strong leader with the ability to develop new partnerships, strengthen existing ones and engage with a resident population of more than 1.5 million people.”

Mr Richards announced that he would be retiring in December after a 32-year career in policing, six of which were as the chief in Sussex.

The advert was published by the PCC this week.

It comes just days after the force advertised for a new assistant chief constable to replace fellow retiree Robin Merrett.

Commenting on the qualities she is looking for in the new chief constable, Mrs Bourne said: “I care passionately about Sussex and the people and communities living within the county, which is why I am looking for a candidate who is highly motivated and who acts with the utmost professionalism and integrity.

“I want to ensure that residents have access to the best possible policing services when they need them. Policing has changing and I am looking for a chief constable who will be innovative and bold in their approach to deliver an effective service that reflects the priorities within my Police and Crime Plan.”

The Police and Crime Panel, which acts as the PCC’s watchdog, will review Mrs Bourne’s decision to appoint a preferred candidate at a confirmation hearing on Friday 27 June.