Scotland appoints first female Chief Constable
Jo Farrell will take over from Sir Iain Livingstone later this year
Last updated 14th Jun 2023
For the first time a woman has been appointed Chief Constable of Police Scotland.
Jo Farrell, who is currently in charge of the Durham Constabulary in England, will take up the post later this year as Sir Iain Livingstone retires in August.
Farrell said it is "a unique opportunity".
While Justice Secretary Angela Constance commented: "As the force marks its 10th anniversary year, she has shown she has the skills needed to lead the service into the next decade and meet the challenges ahead."
Ms Constance continued: “I also want to pay tribute to Sir Iain for his bold leadership and wider service to keeping communities safe during a lengthy, distinguished career in policing. He leaves Police Scotland in great shape after leading it through unprecedented times.”
The appointment comes weeks after the outgoing Chief Constable said the force is institutionally racist, which was welcomed by the First Minister, but provoked a backlash from many within the ranks.
"Mixed emotions"
Jo Farrell said: “This really is a day of mixed emotions. I am immensely proud to have served as Chief Constable of Durham and equally proud of everything the force has achieved over that time.
“Over the last six years, I have worked with some extraordinarily talented and committed people, dedicated to keeping County Durham and Darlington safe, and it has been a very difficult decision to leave.
“But as Chief Constable of Police Scotland I have been offered a unique opportunity to take on one of the most exciting and challenging jobs in UK policing.”
Police Scotland’s current Chief Constable, Sir Iain Livingstone QPM added:
“I congratulate Jo Farrell and look forward to working with her to ensure an effective handover that will maintain stability in Police Scotland.
“Leading our outstanding officers and staff as Scotland’s Chief Constable is an enormous privilege. I have great confidence Jo will continue to develop our service to protect and serve our fellow citizens.”