Derek Penman has taken up post as HM Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland, after being appointed by Her Majesty The Queen by Royal Warrant. 

Thrilled with his appointment Derek said :

 “I am delighted to be taking on the role of HMIC and leading the independent inspection of policing in Scotland in a way that adds value and provides reassurance to our communities that policing - both local and national - remains effective and efficient.”

“I am looking forward to working with the Scottish Police Authority, Police Scotland, the Scottish Government and other key stake holders as the new Policing landscape continues to develop.”

Formerly Assistant Chief Constable at Police Scotland, Derek joined Central Scotland Police in 1982 as a cadet before becoming a Constable in 1984.  He had a varied career, including secondments to the Scottish Police College and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland before being appointed as Temporary Assistant Chief Constable in 2007. 

Following completion of the UK Strategic Command Course in 2008 he was appointed as Assistant Chief Constable with Grampian Police.  In 2011 Derek returned to Central Scotland Police as Deputy Chief Constable, before later that year being appointed as temporary Chief Constable.  He fulfilled that role until the formation of Police Scotland in 2013 when he was appointed Assistant Chief Constable, Local Policing North, also having the Executive Lead for the Criminal Justice portfolio.  Derek has an honours degree in law from Glasgow University and is currently a member of the Institute of Directors.