Gwent Police Authority Appoints Assistant Chief Constable

Simon has recently been acting as temporary Assistant Chief Constable and today's announcement sees him taking on this role permanently.

Simon joined the police as a probationer constable in 1990 and has spent all of his service in Gwent.

Commenting on his appointment Simon said: "I am delighted that the Police Authority has appointed me and I look forward to continuing to work with the Chief Officer Team to provide the high quality policing service the public expect and deserve."

Simon's role will see him responsible for Operational Policing, Crime Investigation, Protective Services and Neighbourhood Response Policing.

Commenting on Simon's appointment Cilla Davies, Chair of Gwent Police Authority, said: "Simon's appointment follows a testing interview process, with a very high calibre of candidates. I am confident that we have identified the right person, equipped with the right experience and the right skills, for this important role.

"It is vital that we have a strong leadership team to take the Force through the tough challenges ahead and I'm sure that Simon will make a valuable contribution to the Chief Officer team."

Gwent Chief Constable Carmel Napier added: "I am delighted with this appointment which comes at the end of a very tough interview process. As is always the case with applications to Gwent Police, the standard was exceptionally high and the candidates were certainly put through their paces and performed very well.

"The Police Authority had to make a difficult decision and I am personally delighted that Simon has been offered the post of Assistant Chief Constable. Having served Gwent for 20 years he fully understands the Force, the area, the priorities of our communities, and what the job entails.

"During his 10 months as temporary Assistant Chief Constable, Simon has overseen a crime reduction in Gwent of 10%, equating to 4500 less victims and I am sure he will continue to be a valuable asset to the Chief Officer team."

Simon is married to Heidi, and has a young daughter. He has a B.A. Honours Degree from the University of Wales and a Masters Degree in Business Administration.