Chief Constable Contract Extended by PCC

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson has confirmed the extension of Chief Constable Catherine Roper’s contract to 2030 - reinforcing his commitment to long-term stability, strategic leadership and continued improvement across policing in the county.

Chief Constable Roper, appointed in February 2023 on a five-year contract, has overseen a period of significant transformation: delivering measurable improvements in crime reduction, stronger community relations and policing, alongside operational performance.

Mr Wilkinson said: “The Chief Constable’s leadership has delivered decisive improvements right across Wiltshire Police - from safer neighbourhoods to faster emergency responses.

“Her strategic clarity, community focus, commitment to candour and transparency with operational drive, has helped to restore trust and deliver a better service to the public.

“In particular, the dramatic enhancements within the Crime and Communications Centre are tangible evidence of her commitment to putting the public first. This contract extension ensures the momentum continues for the next five years.”

In May 2024, Wiltshire Police was lifted from HMICFRS’s “Engage” status—a milestone attributed to Chief Constable Roper’s pace and vision for internal reform, supported by radical governance changes and a renewed focus on frontline delivery.

However, a recent report revealed that the recommendations made in 2022 have yet to be implemented.

His Majesty’s inspectors have told the force that it “needs to improve how it explores and records adverse information in vetting decisions”.

Mr Wilkinson added: “The improvements we’re seeing -from frontline crime reduction to swift, empathetic response in our call centres - underscore Catherine’s relentless focus on the communities we serve.”

Looking ahead, Mr Wilkinson acknowledged the challenging financial landscape facing Wiltshire Police and the need to ensure stability and leadership for the Force.

He said: “We are entering a period where Wiltshire Police must make significant savings, transform how policing is delivered and maintain the improvements already achieved.

“This requires strong, stable leadership. Catherine Roper has proven she can deliver change, drive performance and maintain public confidence. Her continued leadership is essential as we navigate these challenges and reshape policing for the future.”

Chief Constable Roper said: Chief Constable Catherine Roper said: “I am delighted that my contract as Wiltshire Police Chief Constable has been extended. I would like to thank the Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson for his ongoing support and his belief in my leadership of policing for Wiltshire.

“Policing is a privilege – and to serve the communities of this incredible county is a role I treasure. I would also like to thank everyone - colleagues, partner agencies, and our wonderful communities - for making me feel so welcome. It is truly an honour to be here.

“I remain fully committed to continue improving Wiltshire Police. Having made some significant progress over the last few years, we are still navigating some real challenges – not least the financial pressures on our organisation – but I aspire for us to be a truly outstanding force, providing the best possible service.

“I believe the improved strategic governance we now have in place is delivering more for our communities – better outcomes, improvements in reducing and tackling crime, quicker call answer times and forging stronger links with all our communities. This was recognised when HMICFRS lifted Wiltshire Police out of the Engage process in May last year and the improved PEEL assessment that shortly followed.

“I look forward with the same determination and ambition for the Force I had when I was appointed in 2023 and pledge to do all I can to ensure we are Keeping Wiltshire Safe.”