Job advert goes live in hunt for new top cop

A job advert has been posted for the position of chief constable in Staffordshire, with interviews expected to take place in October.

Former chief constable Chris Noble resigned in July, the day before an accelerated misconduct hearing in which it was found he had committed gross misconduct and would have been sacked had he not quit.

Noble was disbarred from the police service, but none of the allegations made against him can be reported because of restrictions set by the misconduct panel.

The new chief constable is expected to start on a salary of £195,258 per year, on a fixed term contract of up to five years, with benefits including a vehicle allowance or a vehicle provided.

"The next chief constable of Staffordshire Police will take office at a pivotal moment for policing," the job advert said.

"Local government reform, devolution and the establishment of a national police service will reshape the governance, funding and delivery of public services.

"As greater responsibility for investment and democratic accountability shifts from central government to local places, policing will need to be even more deeply embedded within its communities and partnerships."

It added that Staffordshire police, fire and crime commissioner (PFCC) Ben Adams was seeking a candidate who could "lead confidently through this period of change".

It said the PFCC wanted an inspirational leader with experience at either chief constable or deputy chief constable level.

"The successful candidate will have a proven track record of leading with integrity and setting high standards," the advert said.

"They will lead by example, be visible and approachable, and actively engage with victims, communities, partners, stakeholders and the workforce."

Applications for the role will close at midday on 14 September. Candidates are due to be shortlisted on 18 September and interviewed in mid-October.

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