Warwickshire Chief Constable steps down after nearly 24 years in policing
Alex Franklin-Smith announces move to private sector
Alex Franklin-Smith is set to leave his role as Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police, pursuing new opportunities in the private sector after nearly 24 years in law enforcement.
He served 19 years with Warwickshire Police, along with tenures at Surrey Police, West Mercia Police, and a secondment at the National Crime Agency.
In a statement, Franklin-Smith described his role as Chief Constable as the pinnacle of his career, emphasising the crucial role that policing plays in society.
Franklin-Smith said: “Policing plays a pivotal role in society and is often described as a job like no other. I am biased, but I believe the Warwickshire public are incredibly fortunate to have the talented and hard-working officers and staff committed to protecting them day in and day out.
“Policing has given me an immense level of job satisfaction, but at 44 years of age I very much consider myself to be mid-career and, while I will be sad to leave the role of Chief Constable, I am excited to have an opportunity to move to the private sector, helping to deliver improvements and much-needed reform across the public safety, justice and policing sectors."
Reflecting on his tenure with Warwickshire Police, Franklin-Smith shared his immense pride in leading the force, expressing his hopes for its continued growth.
Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe expressed gratitude for Franklin-Smith's service, noting his contributions to shaping a new culture within the force.
Seccombe said: "I have today accepted Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith’s decision to step down from policing in April to take up an opportunity in the private sector.
“I would like to place on record my thanks to Alex for his service and commitment to the people of Warwickshire during his time as Chief Constable and across the variety of roles he has held since joining the force in 2007.
“During his time in charge of Warwickshire Police, Alex has begun important work to shape a new culture within the force, with a clear focus on delivering for local people, while also improving the standards and behaviours which communities rightly expect."
The process to appoint an interim leadership and recruit a new Chief Constable will commence in due course, with further updates expected on these developments.