The chief constable of Leicestershire Police has announced his retirement. Rob Nixon, who has been in the role since March 2022, has said he will leave policing in March this year.
Mr Nixon took on the role previously held by Simon Cole, who took his own life 12 days after his own retirement. Mr Nixon’s departure will bring to an end his 32-year policing career, which Leicestershire Police said has been “defined by a commitment to service, innovation and collaboration”.
In a statement, Mr Nixon said that leading the force which he joined as a constable had been “the honour of a lifetime”. He added: “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to work alongside some incredible people – dedicated police officers and staff, and from partner agencies – whose endless commitment to our communities has continually inspired me to do more.
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“I have been fortunate to serve vibrant and diverse communities here throughout my career. The unique support of local people and partners has been integral to keeping people safe.”
During his time as chief constable, Mr Nixon dealt with the 2022 disorder in Leicester, which saw days of violence break out in east Leicester following the conclusion of an India v Pakistan cricket match. Following this, the force was reorganised to invest in stronger and more visible police leadership in neighbourhoods, Leicestershire Police said.
He also led on national initiatives, including in his role as the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for criminal justice since 2023. In that position, he worked to reform the criminal justice system to benefit victims, improve efficiency, and reduce delays, the force added.
Mr Nixon said of his role: “I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional people from local authorities, the emergency services, charities and the health service. All have played an instrumental role in making our communities safer.
“The collaboration and support from all sectors have been key to our successes, and I am deeply grateful for everything they have done to support policing in Leicestershire. We have accomplished much, but none of it would have been possible without this outstanding partnership.”
Mr Nixon said he would continue to work to improve policing at both a local and national level. He said: “Policing has been one of the most rewarding careers I could imagine, and I’m incredibly proud of all we’ve accomplished together. While I will step away from day-to-day leadership, I look forward to remaining involved in supporting national and local improvements and continuing to contribute in new ways in the future.”
He will continue to raise funds in partnership with The Ian and Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust to deliver a Memorial Garden at police headquarters in Enderby, honouring the dedication of all those who have served in policing.