PCC Reopens Recruitment for Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police

The search for an inspirational and forward‑thinking leader to head Leicestershire Police has officially resumed.

Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Rupert Matthews today (20 April 2026) announced the relaunch of the recruitment process to appoint a permanent Chief Constable to lead one of the country’s top‑performing police forces.

The Commissioner first began the appointment process last year following the retirement of former Chief Constable Rob Nixon. Although two highly capable Assistant Chief Constables were interviewed, the interview panel concluded that an appointment could not be made at that time.

Mr. Matthews expressed his gratitude to Temporary Chief Constable David Sandall for stepping into the role since March last year, as well as to all members of the Chief Officer Team who have taken on additional responsibilities during this period.

“I am extremely grateful for the professionalism and dedication shown over the past year,” he said. “However, I fully recognise that this arrangement cannot continue indefinitely.”

The Commissioner said that he is seeking a permanent Chief Constable who can lead the organisation through a period of challenge, change, and opportunity.

“Given the pressures facing policing, not least from the significant reforms to our policing structures being imposed by the national government, I am looking for a leader who is decisive, innovative, and absolutely committed to putting the public first.

“The successful candidate must bring experience of addressing the diverse policing needs of both urban and rural communities and demonstrate the leadership skills required to guide a large organisation through transformation.”

Mr. Matthews reiterated that crime prevention will remain central to his plans.

“Preventing crime not only reduces the number of victims but also eases demand on overstretched public services, including our prisons and courts. I am seeking a Chief Constable who will work with me to deliver the overriding ambition of my Police and Crime Plan: to cut crime.”

The Commissioner added that he is seeking a leader with the vision, ambition, and innovative mindset needed to maintain public confidence and ensure the force can meet current and future policing demands.

Leicestershire Police serves an area of more than 2,500 square miles and a population exceeding 1.1 million people. Covering the vibrant and diverse city of Leicester as well as two of England’s most picturesque counties, the force offers a varied and dynamic policing environment.

Prospective candidates will be subject to a rigorous selection process involving personality profiling, Chief Officer Team Meetings and Stakeholder Advisory Panels before the Formal Interview Panel.

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