Meet the officer set to be Derbyshire's new Chief Constable

Derbyshire's new Chief Constable is set to be the officer which led the Toddbrook Reservoir emergency response last year.

Rachel Swann, the current Deputy Chief Constable, is set to be appointed as Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa's preferred candidate to replace Peter Goodman, who is retiring after a 32-year career in policing.

Amongst a career of high-profile incidents, Ms Swann (pictured) led the multi-agency response to the Toddbrook Reservoir emergency in Whaley Bridge in August 2019. 

Her suitability for the role was put to the test during a robust assessment process, which included the delivery of a presentation before a community panel and media exercise. Final interviews took place last Friday.

Ms Swann's appointment is now subject to a confirmation hearing by Derbyshire’s Police and Crime Panel.

“I am delighted to announce current Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Swann as my preferred candidate for the role of Derbyshire’s next Chief Constable,” said Mr Dhindsa.

“Derbyshire remains one of the safest counties in the country and the pressure has been on to find a driven and inspirational new leader to take the helm of the force.

“The selection process has been extremely challenging and it has been difficult to choose between such high calibre candidates.

“However, Rachel’s depth of experience and proven leadership will ensure Derbyshire Constabulary continues to go from strength to strength in the future and I look forward to working with her in her new role. I would like to congratulate her on her success during what was a rigorous recruitment process.”

Rachel commented: “I’m absolutely delighted and feel extremely privileged to be the preferred candidate the post of Chief Constable.  Derbyshire Constabulary is a really good force with great people working in it and I look forward to working with the PCC to deliver a good level of service to our communities.”