His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Authorities

Do you want to play a key role in shaping the future landscape of the policing and fire rescue services?

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) is an independent body that inspects and reports on the efficiency and effectiveness of police forces in England and Wales, fire and rescue services in England and other nationwide law enforcement agencies. Through its inspections, the organisation monitors trends, challenges practice and identifies areas for improvement that provides the public with a clear, consistent and independent view of the quality of services in their local area. This ultimately allows both the public and their elected representatives to hold services to account.

This exciting opportunity comes at a crucial moment in policing history as the Government has set out its ambitious agenda for Police Reform through its 2026 White Paper which includes a new model for policing to ensure policing in this country is fit for the modern world. The new HMCI will lead the response from HMICRS, playing a pivotal role in ensuring local police forces are equipped to make their local communities safer.

The post encompasses the dual roles of HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue Authorities in England (HMCI). The successful candidate will play a key role in the corporate leadership of HMICFRS, working closely with the Chief Operating Officer and their fellow HM Inspectors. HMCI will confidently champion the Inspectorate before Parliament, Ministers, the media and the public, defending the integrity of the Inspectorate and its inspection programme. We are looking for someone who has:

• A successful track record of strategic leadership of a large, complex, delivery organisation;
• Experience of working in or with the most senior levels of government or public sector services;
• Experience of successfully leading an organisation through a period of significant transformation and redevelopment of organisational structures;
• Strong analytical skills, predominantly with a reliance on evidence-based practice, and the capability to carry out rigorous inspections informed by robust big data analytics;
• A first-class communicator - orally and in writing - with the confidence, authority and interpersonal skills to secure and retain the confidence of a wide range of stakeholder groups;
• Strong relationship management skills, including the ability to build constructive relationships and effectively challenge and influence stakeholders, while maintaining impartiality and independence; and
• The flexibility and personal resilience to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances in an environment of regular scrutiny by the media, public and others.

This full-time appointment is made by HM The King on the recommendation of the Home Secretary, following consultation with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. The initial term of office will be for a period of up to five years. For a full candidate information pack and details of how to apply, please click here:

The closing date for applications is 23:00 on 7 April 2026