UK’s Longest-Serving Chief Constable Simon Cole to Retire in Spring 2022
Leicestershire’s very own Simon Cole, the UK’s longest-serving Chief Constable, has announced he will retire from policing in Spring 2022 after an impressive 12-year run at the helm.
Simon Cole Reflects on a Career of Service and Honour
Chief Constable Cole, who grew up in Leicestershire, said: “It has been a great honour to lead Leicestershire Police since 2010 and serve the communities in which I grew up.”
He praised the dedication of his officers, staff, and volunteers, saying their “unstoppable acts of bravery, compassion and determination have motivated me every day.”
“I am especially proud to have made the force more representative of the communities we serve,” Cole added, highlighting efforts to build trust and safety across the city and surrounding counties.
A Career Filled with Challenges and Community Impact
From managing Covid lockdowns and emergency crises to overseeing Premier League celebrations and even a medieval king’s re-interment, Cole’s time as Chief Constable spanned the extraordinary.
Yet, he says the highlight came from positive community engagement – whether cracking down on county lines gangs, domestic abuse, or simply connecting with locals over samosas and pork pies at events.
“Policing is brilliant, tough, and of immeasurable value,” said Cole. “My 33 years in service have flown by, but my focus on people and teamwork has stayed constant.”
Tributes and What’s Next for Leicestershire Police
Rupert Matthews, Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, thanked Cole for “12 years of exceptional service” and said: “We live in a safer place thanks to his leadership.”
Cole’s legacy includes a financially and operationally strong police force rated “good” by HMICFRS. He will continue working until a successor is appointed.
Fast Facts: Chief Constable Simon Cole
- Started policing career in 1988 with West Midlands Police
- Joined Hampshire Constabulary as Assistant Chief Constable in 2003
- Promoted to Deputy Chief Constable in 2008
- Appointed Chief Constable of Leicestershire in 2010 – longest-serving in the UK
- Leads nationally on digital public contact and Prevent strategy
- Awarded Queen’s Police Medal (2014) and Sir Robert Peel Medal (2021)
The search for Leicestershire Police’s next Chief Constable will begin soon, with Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews spearheading the recruitment process.
