Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe has launched the process to find the next Chief Constable for Warwickshire Police.

He is looking to find a dynamic and inspirational leader to help shape the next chapter of the delivery of public services to the benefit of communities in Warwickshire.

It follows the decision of the force's current Chief Constable Martin Jelley QPM to retire at the end of June.

"The Chief Constable role is a pivotal role for policing and for local communities, so it is essential we find the right person who can lead Warwickshire Police forward over the next few years," said Mr Seccombe.

"They will have the opportunity to make their mark and make a significant contribution to the safety and wellbeing of communities across Warwickshire. Working with an engaged and committed workforce, they will be charged with implementing and embedding the improvements and new ways of working that are now in train to fully modernise the force.

"I have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with outgoing Chief Constable Martin Jelley QPM, his senior team and Warwickshire Police as a whole. I am looking for the next Chief Constable to continue to maintain and enhance this relationship and work effectively with our many partners in the county."

Details of the role are being advertised widely and applications are being sought from all suitably qualified candidates, particularly those from under-represented groups. The final appointment will take place after the Police and Crime Commissioner elections in May.

Mr Seccombe added: "It is essential for the workforce of Warwickshire Police and communities across Warwickshire that there is stability and a clear direction at the top of the force. I have launched the recruitment process now to ensure there is sufficient time to appoint the right person to the role and ensure there can be as seamless a transition as possible when the current Chief Constable retires in June.

"As this advertisement goes live, the elections for the next Police and Crime Commissioner term of office are due to take place on May 6. I have therefore timed the selection process to enable whoever the electorate chooses to be the Police and Crime Commissioner to be fully involved in the process and have the final say on the preferred candidate for Chief Constable will be.

"Choosing a Chief Constable is one of the most significant actions a Police and Crime Commissioner can take and it is essential that the recruitment process is open and transparent for everyone involved. This will be the first major decision of the next term of office and will mark an exciting new chapter in the long history of Warwickshire Police."

The closing deadline for applications is 11 May 2021.

Once selected, the preferred candidate, together with the Police and Crime Commissioner, will be required to attend a public Confirmation Hearing before the Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel, at a date to be confirmed.

For more information and an application pack visit the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Warwickshire's website.