13/05/2025
Clive Hammond
The PCC's preferred candidate was approved by the region's Police and Crime Panel.
Rob Carden has been confirmed as Merseyside Police Chief Constable, two weeks after PCC Emily Spurrell backed his candidacy for the post.
CC Carden, who is currently Chief Constable at Cumbria Constabulary and who has more than 30 years policing experience, was her preferred choice to take over the top role in Merseyside after Serena Kennedy KPM, retires on August 31.
The PCC’s decision was referred to the Police and Crime Panel, which considered the appointment at a confirmation hearing yesterday.
The hearing, which was livestreamed to enable members of the public to observe, gave Panel members the opportunity to review the recruitment and selection process, assess the supporting documents and interview CC Carden in person.
Ms Spurrell said: “I am very pleased that the Panel has approved my selection of Rob Carden to be the next Chief Constable of Merseyside Police, and my warmest congratulations go to him on his appointment.
“Rob first joined Merseyside Police in 1992 and, during his career, has spent more than 20 years serving the people of Merseyside before moving to Cumbria Constabulary on promotion as Deputy Chief Constable and subsequently being appointed Chief Constable.
“This means he fully understands the unique challenges of policing our region and has the leadership experience and clear strategic thinking needed to maintain the exceptional reputation and standards of Merseyside Police and to drive the organisation forward.
“Throughout the interview process he impressed both me and the interview panel with his vision for the organisation, his operational knowledge and insight and his dedication and passion for policing.
CC Carden added: “My father served Merseyside Police for over 33 years, and I was extremely proud to follow in his footsteps when I joined the organisation in 1992. To now be returning to the organisation as Chief Constable and to lead the organisation which has been such a big part of my family, is a genuine honour and privilege.
“Merseyside Police is already an outstanding organisation, which is rightly recognised as one of the best police services in the country. I am committed to building on Serena’s legacy and ensuring I lead a workforce which takes pride in delivering an excellent service to our communities, protecting those who are vulnerable, keeping our streets safe and ensuring offenders face justice.
CC Carden will be appointed for a period of five years.