At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to enhance policing services across Kent.
- Company: Join Kent Police, a high-performing force dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, lease car option, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant impact on public safety and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must be a Chief Superintendent or above with relevant leadership training.
The predicted salary is between 125188 - 141050 £ per year.
Location of Role: Headquarters, Maidstone
Advert Closing Date: 11/09/2026
Salary Range: £125,188* to £141,050 (Plus South-east Allowance and lease car option)
Part/Full Time: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Working Pattern: Mon-Fri with regular evening/weekend work
Weekend/Evening Working: Yes
Kent Police are accepting applications for qualified individuals wishing to be considered to join the force at the rank of Assistant Chief Constable. The force are recruiting for a minimum of 2 roles, including both uniform and crime portfolios. The successful candidate/s will join the force’s Chief Officer Management Board and will provide professional leadership as well as supporting wider strategic operational leadership responsibilities.
Kent Police is a high-performing force serving more than 1.9 million residents and millions of visitors each year. Through the Kent Police Pledge, we are committed to providing a high-quality policing service, delivered with integrity, supporting victims and tackling crime. We have made significant progress in recent years and continue to focus on improving the service provided across the county.
Whilst the Force are proud of the progress achieved, we are not complacent. We recognise there is more to do and we are seeking operationally credible strategic leaders who can help us continue to enhance the service we provide to the people of Kent. This influential strategic leadership role will play a significant part in delivering performance and in the corporate management of the force.
The successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Being an inspirational and visionary leader with a clear ability to connect with officers, staff and volunteers at all levels, as well as key stakeholders.
- An understanding of the needs and issues arising from policing communities across the county.
- How they will recognise our staff as our most important asset and support maintaining an environment that enhances a healthy, skilled and empowered workforce.
- The ability to build and maintain significant networks to strengthen partnership and collaborative working, demonstrating strong political awareness in a complex and changing environment.
- A commitment and passion for the service provided to the people of Kent, demonstrating unquestionable integrity and commitment to the policing Code of Ethics.
To be eligible to apply for this opportunity candidates must:
- Hold the substantive rank of Chief Superintendent or above, and
- Have completed and passed the College of Policing Executive Leaders Programme (ELP Stage 5) or the Senior Police National Assessment Centre (PNAC) and successfully completed the Strategic Command Course (SCC).
Candidates must complete the necessary management level vetting and security clearance checks required to attain the rank of Assistant Chief Constable before appointment. In addition to the above criteria, the successful candidate will be required to undertake the role of Force Gold Commander which includes undertaking Strategic Firearms Command (SFC) as part of the forces on call-arrangements and successfully complete the A7 Authorising Officer’s Course. Any offer of appointment will be subject to the successful candidate holding/obtaining the required accreditation to perform these duties.
A briefing session will be held for candidates on 3rd September 2026 from 14:00 therefore prompt registration of interest is essential. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 11 September 2026. It is currently anticipated that the assessment process for this opportunity will be held during the week commencing 21st September 2026.
To arrange an informal and confidential discussion about this opportunity and request an application pack please contact our People Development team on hr.people.development@ecis.police.uk.
*Salary and allowances payable will be in line with relevant Regulations/determinations.
Kent Police and Essex Police welcomes applications regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, sex, or employment status. Please let us know if you require extra support at any stage of the application process, or for further information regarding this position, please email us at recruitment.business.services@ecis.police.uk stating ‘Application Support and Adjustments’ in the title of your email. Alternatively, you can call us on 01245 452833. Where appropriate we will make adjustments to the selection process, working arrangements and/or the working environment provided it is reasonable in all the circumstances to do so.
If you’re not from the UK, you must be a resident in the UK and have lived here continuously for the last three years. You must also be free from restrictions with indefinite leave to remain. If you’re from the UK you must have lived here continuously for the last three years. This doesn’t apply to those serving abroad in the British Armed Forces.
Essex Police and Kent Police are an equal opportunities employer. Communications may be recorded for monitoring purposes. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion are central to the values of our organisation. At Kent Police we value and embrace the unique experiences, identities and abilities that each of us bring to our roles. We strive to empower everyone to bring their authentic self openly and safely to work. Through the dedicated commitment of our support networks, DE&I team and wider HR departments, we are on a journey to embed our DE&I commitments, ensuring Kent Police is an employer of choice; where everyone feels included.
Assistant Chief Constable - Headquarters, Maidstone employer: Kent Police
Kent Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As a Team Leader in the Maidstone/Tonbridge area, you will benefit from a structured career path with incremental salary increases, a focus on health and safety training, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the community. Join a dedicated team where your leadership skills will be valued, and enjoy a work-life balance with no weekend or evening shifts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Chief Constable - Headquarters, Maidstone
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Kent Police, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Kent Police and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Chief Constable - Headquarters, Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Kent Police and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Police
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Kent Police, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Kent Police.
