Chief Constable Jo Shiner has bagged the prestigious King’s Police Medal (KPM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List, celebrating over 30 years of stellar service across Norfolk, Kent, and Sussex police forces.
Trailblazer in Blue: From Norfolk Rookie to Sussex Boss
Jo Shiner kicked off her police career at Norfolk Constabulary in 1993. She climbed the ranks through tough roles in CID, Public Protection, and Specialist Ops. In 2014, she joined Kent Police as Assistant Chief Constable before moving to Sussex Police as Deputy Chief Constable in 2018. By July 2020, she made history as Sussex’s first female Chief Constable.
With over 20 years of experience as a qualified Firearms, Public Order, and Critical Incident Commander, Shiner has become a national voice for policing professionalism and community-focused leadership.
Road Safety Warrior Takes Centre Stage
As the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Roads Policing Lead, Shiner is on a mission to slash road deaths. She pushes for tougher laws and ramps up public awareness.
“Jo meets regularly with families devastated by road collisions and uses their stories to shape national road safety strategy,” revealed a Home Office source.
Charity Champion and Community Crusader
Beyond the badge, Shiner is a passionate supporter of wellbeing and animal rescue:
- National Ambassador for Oscar Kilo 9 (OK9) – the UK’s police wellbeing dog programme
- Patron of Sussex Search and Rescue, Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, and the Sussex Police Charitable Trust
- Dedicated supporter of RNLI, 1 Chaplaincy, and Arundawn Dog Rescue
Humble Hero: Giving Credit to Her Team
Following the award announcement, Shiner said:
“I am incredibly proud to be Chief Constable of Sussex Police, leading such a professional, dedicated, and passionate team. This medal is a reflection of teamwork, and I’m humbled to accept it on behalf of those I’ve worked with across Norfolk, Kent, and Sussex.”
Wide Praise for Inspirational Leadership
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne hailed Shiner’s achievement:
“Chief Constable Jo Shiner has provided inspirational leadership and outstanding service to Sussex. This King’s Police Medal is richly deserved recognition of her exceptional achievements and dedication.”
Jo lives in Sussex with her husband Andrew and their rescue dog, Rocky.
