The Scottish Police Authority has today, Thursday, 13 March, 2025, announced the appointment of Alan Waddell to the role of Assistant Chief Constable (ACC).
Chief Superintendent Alan Waddell is currently Police Scotland’s Head of Emergency, Events and Resilience Planning.
His appointment follows a process of assessment, interview and selection conducted by the Authority.
Announcing the appointment, Fiona McQueen CBE, Interim Chair of the Authority said:
“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Alan Waddell to the rank of Assistant Chief Constable with Police Scotland.
“Alan has a wealth of skills and experience which will support the Chief Constable and her leadership team to drive and deliver Police Scotland’s vision and business plan to 2030.”
Chief Constable Jo Farrell said:
“I want to congratulate Alan on his promotion. Alan is a strong addition to our chief officer team and will play an important leadership role in delivering our vision of safer communities, less crime, supported victims, and a thriving workforce.”
Biography
Chief Superintendent Alan Waddell joined Central Scotland Police in 1997 and worked across a variety of roles, including CID, road policing and emergency planning, going on to become area commander for Falkirk. In 2018, he was appointed Divisional Commander for Lanarkshire. Chief Superintendent Waddell has led Emergency, Events and Resilience Planning department since 2022.
Background information
The Authority advertised for Assistant Chief Constables across the UK from 17 January 2025 until 7 February 2025. The roles were open to all applicants who met the statutory eligibility criteria.
The assessment process for shortlisted candidates included:
- An interview with the selection panel
- An operational competence discussion with two Deputy Chief Constables
- Psychometric testing.
The Authority is responsible for appointing Police Scotland’s Chief Constable, Deputy Chief Constables and Assistant Chief Constables, as required by the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.
The Selection Panel was chaired by Fiona McQueen, Interim Chair of the Scottish Police Authority and included:
- Jo Farrell, Chief Constable
- Alasdair Hay, Board Member of the Scottish Police Authority
- David Robertson, Chief Executive of Scottish Borders Council, Independent Member
Craig Naylor, HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland was an advisor to the panel and observed its discussions with candidates.
Assistant Chief Constables of Police Scotland earn a starting salary of £151,816. The appointment will be in accordance with the Police Service of Scotland Regulations 2013 made under the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.
