The States of Jersey Police (SoJP) have today [Monday 27 July] announced they will be temporarily postponing the recruitment of a permanent Deputy Chief Officer.

Since joining the Force in January, the Chief of Police has reviewed the organisational requirements for the service and following close consultation with the Minister of Home Affairs and the Jersey Police Authority, they have agreed to temporarily defer a permanent appointment.

Instead, the role of ‘Designated Deputy’ will be introduced and performed by one of the Force’s substantive Superintendents on a rotating six months basis, who will be the de facto second in command.

The arrangement will last for one year, commencing on 5 October 2020, with each covering the period for six months. Allowing for a rotation of skills and responsibilities within the senior leadership team, broader developmental opportunities, different portfolios and will assist succession planning for the future.

The temporary change will assist SoJP in assessing the financial position in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure front-line constable and sergeant numbers are prioritised.

Robin Smith, Chief of Police commented: “I strongly believe there is sufficient resilience within our dedicated and experienced senior leadership team without appointing a Deputy Chief Officer at this time. James Wileman will be the first ‘Designated Duty’, returning to his previous role of Superintendent in October. I would like to take the opportunity to thank James personally for all his had work as Acting Deputy Chief Officer.”

At the end of the 12 months, the Chief of Police will review the arrangement and report to the Minister of Home Affairs and the Jersey Police Authority.