Deputy Chief Constable Helen McMillan has been announced as the Acting Chief Constable for Cleveland Police.
Helen will take up the role on an interim basis following the departure of Richard Lewis, who has taken up a new role as Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police in Wales.
Helen has extensive experience in operational policing having risen through the ranks of Durham Constabulary where she became their first female Chief Officer. Helen moved to Northumbria Police in 2017 as the Assistant Chief Constable responsible for the serious and violent crime portfolio and has been Deputy Chief Constable at Cleveland Police since July 2020.
Speaking about her new role, Acting Chief Constable McMillan said: “I’m proud to work for Cleveland Police and proud to have been given this opportunity to lead the Force over the next few months.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner reopened applications for Cleveland’s next Chief Constable last week. Candidates will have until Wednesday 12 January to submit an application, with plans for a three-panel interview process to follow for shortlisted applicants.
Helen will remain in post until a preferred candidate is identified.
PCC Steve Turner said: “I welcome Helen to the role of Acting Chief Constable. Helen will have responsibility for the operational and day-to-day running of the force and has a breadth of knowledge of the challenges facing the force going forwards.”