GMP appoints two new Assistant Chief Constables

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Heywood

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GMP has appointed Steve Heywood and Ian Wiggett to the roles of Assistant Chief Constable for Greater Manchester Police.

The two have been assigned to the posts responsible for major crime, serious and organised crime, covert investigations and specialists operations.

Chief Constable, Sir Peter Fahy said: “I am pleased that both Steve and Ian have been appointed into these roles. Both candidates were originally appointed on a temporary basis some months ago and it is within this period that they have demonstrated excellent leadership and support to the Force during what has been a difficult time.

“Steve was appointed as temporary Assistant Chief Constable for Greater Manchester Police 18 months ago. During this time he has begun work on Operation Challenger, which was launched to tackle organised crime. This has been a significant challenge for the Force and I am pleased that we can see this work continue. He has a wide portfolio of experience in serious crime and I know he will be able to drive the Force forward through the work that he will deliver.

“Ian was appointed the role as temporary Assistant Chief Constable three months ago and has been leading on a Forcewide project around mental health and how other services can work with police to better address these issues. He has also been working with the National Police Air Service following the change of the air support to a regional level. He has years of experience in operational policing and I look forward to what he can bring to the role.”

Speaking about his appointment ACC Steve Heywood said: “Being given the permanent appointment to this role is a proud moment and I look forward to the challenges ahead. The Force has been through some difficult periods and has continued to deliver an excellent service to the community of Greater Manchester. I am committed to seeing this service continue and will help our officers and staff continue to ensure that this is delivered.”

ACC Ian Wiggett said: “I am very proud to be able to take on this role with GMP. During the course of my career I have gained a wide experience of operation policing roles, both local and specialist. I am absolutely committed to providing a high quality of service to the public of Greater Manchester, and look forward to applying my experience to the role and helping to make a difference.”

Tony Lloyd, Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Congratulations to Steve and Ian on their appointments. Working with them over the past few months, it’s been clear to me that both are experienced and dedicated officers. They have shown no hesitation in taking on the challenges of leading GMP and I have every confidence that they will continue to do an excellent job.”

The interview was carried out by the Chief Constable, Sir Peter Fahy, Deputy Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, PCC Tony Lloyd, Paul Murphy Chair of HR Governance Panel for the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Russell Bernstein Chief Executive of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Barbara Spicer Chief Executive at Salford City Council and GMP Head of HR Tim Way.

ACC Steve Heywood will be responsible for the serious crime division, public protection division and counter terrorism. ACC Ian Wiggett will be responsible for Specialist Operations which include, roads policing, mounted and dog unit, tactical aid unit, firearms and the air support unit. He is also chair of North West Air Support Consortium.