The Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel held a confirmation hearing for the proposed appointment of Joanne Davison as Interim Chief Executive Officer for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner. The panel questioned Ms Davison and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Marc Jones, before moving into a private session to make a recommendation on her appointment.

Chief Executive Officer Confirmation Hearing

The Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel convened for a confirmation hearing to consider the proposed appointment of Joanne Davison as Interim Chief Executive Officer for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC). This was described as a historic meeting as it was the first confirmation hearing of its kind held by Lincolnshire.

Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones explained his decision to appoint Ms Davison on an interim basis, citing the current period of uncertainty regarding local government reform and police productivity reviews. He stated that a full recruitment process at this time would be inappropriate, and that Ms Davison's substantial skill set would provide stability and allow time to understand the future landscape for Lincolnshire. He emphasised that this approach represented best value for money and would ensure the least amount of disruption within the organisation.

Councillor Graham Marsh questioned the timing of the interim appointment, suggesting that a period of four to five years might be more appropriate for such arrangements. Commissioner Jones clarified that the interim period would be for 12 months, allowing time to understand next year's budget and internal stability. He also noted that advertising for a permanent Chief Executive now, with the current financial uncertainties, might attract a weaker field of candidates. He highlighted the importance of Ms Davison's role in maintaining a direct working relationship with the Deputy Chief Constable, stating that throwing somebody completely new into all of that right now would not be helpful.

The panel members, including Councillor Sean Matthews and Councillor Jonathan Pessol, questioned Ms Davison extensively on her familiarity with the statutory responsibilities of a Chief Executive in a policing context. Ms Davison outlined her understanding of the role, which includes supporting the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) in delivering their statutory duties, producing and delivering the police and crime plan, public engagement, and ensuring good governance through lawful and ethical decision-making. She also highlighted her experience in managing the OPCC team and working with a wide range of partners.

When asked about potential personal risks in moving from a secure full-time job to an interim position, Ms Davison clarified that her role as Head of Paid Service would not be made redundant. She expressed confidence in finding a solution to the force's financial challenges, stating that she had been intrinsically involved with all of those discussions with the Home Office. She defined good leadership as being open, honest and transparent, with a focus on setting clear direction and ensuring individual roles align with organisational aims.

Regarding challenges facing policing and community safety beyond funding, Ms Davison identified short-term funding for initiatives like hotspot funding and serious violence funding as a concern, stressing the need for continuity of service. She also highlighted the importance of supporting the force's engagement and the need to maintain public and staff trust and confidence.

Ms Davison detailed her approach to stakeholder engagement, drawing on her background as Partnership and Delivery Manager. She emphasised the importance of working with statutory partners such as health services, fire services, and local authorities through Community Safety Partnerships. She also stressed the crucial role of the voluntary and community sector in reaching communities with varying levels of trust in policing. She explained how she would ensure separation between her executive role and representing the PCC, noting that the Deputy PCC's role is political, while hers is officer-based and focused on independent, legal, and ethical advice.

When questioned about demonstrating independence as a monitoring officer, particularly when her professional advice might differ from the PCC's views, Ms Davison stated that if a difference of opinion arose, it would be discussed. However, she affirmed that if the PCC intended to do something unlawful or constituting maladministration, she would have a clear duty to escalate the matter. She also outlined her intention to foster a good working relationship with the monitoring officer panel, ensuring timely information is provided for them to carry out their statutory functions.

The panel concluded its questioning, and the Police and Crime Panel moved into a private session to make its recommendation regarding Ms Davison's appointment. The decision was to be communicated to the Police and Crime Commissioner within one working day.