Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police joins the College board

The Home Secretary has confirmed the appointment of Chief Constable Stephen Watson QPM to our board of directors, chaired by Nick Herbert (Lord Herbert of South Downs).

Stephen began his career with Lancashire Constabulary in 1988 and was appointed to Merseyside Police in 2006. Here he served as Chief Superintendent and headed up the force's Strategic Development Department. He subsequently served for three years as Area Commander for Liverpool North.

As one of the most experienced senior officers in the country, Stephen will be a real asset to our board bringing wide-ranging experience and insights. Stephen’s extensive expertise will be invaluable to our work, providing scrutiny and advice to ensure that national standards are based on the best possible evidence, drawing on good practice across all sectors.  

A warm welcome to our College Stephen, and I look forward to working together.

Chief Constable Andy Marsh, College of Policing CEO

In 2011, Stephen was appointed Commander for the East Area in the Metropolitan Police, with responsibility for all aspects of operational policing across nine London boroughs. He returned to the north of England in 2015 as Deputy Chief Constable for Durham Constabulary, before being appointed Chief Constable for South Yorkshire Police in 2016.

During Stephen’s tenure, South Yorkshire Police became one of the most improved forces in the country for three consecutive years. Today it is among the highest performing forces.

He took up his role as Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police in May 2021, leading it to become the most improved force in the country by October 2022.

An effective College of Policing, serving to sustain high and consistent standards, is critical to us achieving the mission that our public expects of us. I look forward to working with the excellent people who lead the College and to making a personal contribution to its future contribution to its future success, whilst continuing to have the privilege of leading Greater Manchester Police.

Chief Constable Stephen Watson QPM, Greater Manchester Police

Stephen has performed Gold Command roles in a number of high-profile policing operations and critical incidents. These include a fatal helicopter crash in central London and working with partner agencies to restore public confidence in the aftermath of the 2011 riots.

He has a Master's degree in Business Administration. In 2012, he was awarded the Commissioner’s Commendation as senior member of the 2012 Olympic Command Team. In 2019, he was awarded the Queen's Police Medal (QPM) for distinguished service.

See all our board members