Hampshire police's new chief constable announced

Olivia Pinkney was confirmed as chief by the Police and Crime Panel in Winchester.

It follows Hampshire’s police and crime commissioner Simon Hayes nominating her as his preferred candidate.

She was previously deputy chief at Sussex police.

Ms Pinkney said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted to hear the panel’s decision and I look forward to leading the professionals within Hampshire Constabulary and serving the communities across the county and the Isle of Wight.’

The panel unanimously agreed to confirm her in the role.

Chairman of the Police and Crime Panel, Councillor David Stewart, said: ‘The panel has unanimously agreed that Olivia Pinkney was an outstanding candidate for this position.

‘The way in which she answered each of the questions posed by the Panel has demonstrated her suitability for the role, meaning that Hampshire and the Isle of Wight now have a new chief constable of exceptionally high calibre.’

Mr Hayes added: ‘I believe that Olivia Pinkney has all the necessary qualities needed in a modern Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary: experience, dignity, understanding, and humility.

‘This appointment is hugely important for the future development of Hampshire Constabulary, but it is not just about the Constabulary itself, the chief constable must work strategically, and with our partners across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.’

A full report into the decision is due to be published next week.

It comes after Andy Marsh left the post and joined Avon and Somerset police as its chief.

Hampshire Police Federation chairman John Apter added: ‘This is welcome news, Olivia Pinkney has a proven, positive track record of leadership and in the wake of Andy Marsh leaving so suddenly what we need now is a chief constable to come in and give us some stability and leadership.

‘I look forward to working with the new chief constable in the near future.’