A SENIOR Metropolitan Police Force officer is set to become the new Chief Constable for Essex.

Stephen Kavanagh, currently Deputy Assistant Commissioner in the Met, has been selected by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner Nick Alston to lead the force.

Mr Kavanagh, the PCC’s preferred candidate, is subject to a confirmation hearing of the Police and Crime Panel at their meeting of February 21, 2013.

Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle announced his decision to retire from policing for personal reasons last November, but will continue to lead Essex Police until May 3, 2013.

Mr Alston said: “Stephen Kavanagh comes to this role with exceptional experience of policing, having held many high profile and demanding positions.

“Stephen was brought up in Essex, and his father was an officer in Essex Police. He is enthusiastic about taking on the leadership of the force. He is also committed to working in partnership with everyone in the community to continue to keep Essex safe.”

Mr Kavanagh added: “I feel hugely privileged to have been recommended as the next Chief Constable of Essex Police. If confirmed by the Police and Crime Panel, I greatly look forward to working alongside the PCC and everyone in the force to deliver our shared vision for policing and keeping our communities safe.”