PCC announces interim Acting Chief Constable

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore has identified an Acting Chief Constable to lead the Suffolk Constabulary on an interim basis.

Mark Webster, recently retired Chief Constable from Cleveland, will lead the Constabulary while the PCC continues his search for the right Chief Constable for Suffolk.  The intention is to advertise in early 2027.

The current Chief Constable, Rachel Kearton is due to retire in October.

Tim Passmore said, “Despite an extensive recruitment process, we were unable to secure a substantive Chief Constable and whilst our long-term plan is to secure a substantive Chief, Mark will provide stability for the force in this time of significant change.

“Mark has a terrific reputation and as a recently retired Chief Constable he has the experience we need to hit the road running. I look forward to working with Mark and I am grateful that he is prepared to come to Suffolk to help us out.”

“My initial conversations with Mark have been very constructive and he is looking forward to joining Suffolk Constabulary to initially cover the current Chief’s annual leave, and then her retirement.”

Mark Webster said, “I look forward to bringing my policing experience to support the officers and staff of Suffolk Constabulary and help maintain it as one of the safest places in the country to live.” 

A bit of background

Mark started his career with the Greater Manchester Police in 1992. He served 11 years with the National Crime Agency in London dealing with serious and organised crime and served as the Deputy Chief Constable of Cumbria Police.  He was appointed Chief Constable of Cleveland Police in February 2022, where he helped lift the regional force out of special measures.  He retired from policing in July 2025.