Derek Penman reappointed as head of police inspectorate HCIMS

Derek Penman, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary, HMICS - Image credit: Scottish Parliament TV

Derek Penman QPM has been reappointed as Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland.

He will serve in the role for another three years following approval of his reappointment by the Queen.

HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland is the most senior professional police adviser to Scottish ministers.

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Penman is responsible for planning and leading an annual programme of inspection, monitoring and evaluation of the performance of Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority.

He is also a source of professional independent advice on police matters.

Before his appointment in 2014, Derek Penman was an assistant chief constable for Police Scotland with responsibility for local policing in the north of Scotland.

Prior to that, he had been deputy chief constable and acting chief constable for Central Scotland Police.

The University of Glasgow law graduate has nearly 30 years’ experience from in the police, and he has held a variety of posts, including secondments to both the Scottish Police College and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary, since joining Central Scotland Police in 1984.

Speaking of the reappointment, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “HMICS plays a key role in ensuring Scotland’s police continue to perform their duties to a high standard.

“Mr Penman has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the inspectorate since his appointment in January 2014 and his work has been invaluable to the police service and the people of Scotland. 

“I am delighted that Her Majesty the Queen has approved Mr Penman’s reappointment for another three years.”

The reappointment will run until January 2020.