Mayor extends Sir John Robins' tenure as one of Britain's longest-serving Chief Constables

The Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, has extended the appointment of Sir John Robins QPM DL, ensuring the continued leadership of one of the country's most experienced and respected police chiefs.

It will see him lead West Yorkshire Police until 2029, providing stability at a time when policing faces increasingly complex challenges. 

The Mayor's decision reflects confidence in his leadership and his record of delivering improvements in public safety, victim support, and criminal justice outcomes. 

Since his appointment, Sir John has worked with the Mayor and partners to advance shared ambitions including the response to serious violence, the safety of women and girls, improving neighbourhood safety, and enhancing collaboration across policing, local government, and the criminal justice system. 

Currently one of the longest-serving Chief Constables in the United Kingdom, Sir John joined West Yorkshire Police as a constable in 1990 and became Chief Constable in July 2019, having spent his entire policing career serving the people of West Yorkshire. 

Under his tenure, crime across the county has reduced, more offenders have been brought to justice, and the force has maintained high standards of service for victims and witnesses. 

The extension also follows national recognition, after Sir John was awarded a Knighthood in the King's New Year Honours 2026 for services to policing. 

West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable, Sir John Robins QPM DL, said:

“I am both honoured and delighted to continue serving as Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police. 

“I look forward to working with our leaders, our people, and our partners as we continue to protect and serve the communities in West Yorkshire and the wider region. I am incredibly proud to be a police officer and work alongside so many colleagues who are so committed to public service.

“While policing faces significant challenges in the years ahead, I am confident that we can build on the progress we have made and continue to put the public at the heart of everything we do."

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said:

"Sir John has dedicated more than three decades of his life to keeping the people of West Yorkshire safe and has earned a national reputation as an outstanding policing leader. 

“His commitment to our communities, his focus on supporting victims and bringing offenders to justice, and his determination to drive continuous improvement have helped make West Yorkshire Police one of the country's leading forces.

"Extending his appointment provides stability, experience and strong leadership as we continue our work to make West Yorkshire a safer, fairer place for everyone."

West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Baroness Alison Lowe OBE, said:

"Sir John's leadership has been defined by a relentless commitment to public service, professionalism and partnership working. 

“He has overseen significant improvements in policing performance while maintaining a clear focus on supporting victims and protecting vulnerable people.

"As one of the longest-serving Chief Constables in the country, his experience is invaluable, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him to deliver safer communities across West Yorkshire."