New interim Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services appointed

Michelle Skeer OBE QPM has been appointed as His Majesty’s interim Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, following approval by His Majesty the King.

She will take up the role on 1 April 2026, succeeding Sir Andy Cooke, who leaves office at the end of March. The process to appoint a permanent Chief Inspector is being led by the Home Office.

Skeer brings 36 years of experience across policing and fire and rescue, and will become the first woman to hold the post. She joined His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) in 2023, where she has overseen inspections across the north of England and led national work on domestic abuse, child protection, and policing’s engagement with women and girls.

Her career includes becoming the first female Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary in 2018. She has also served as Vice Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council and led national efforts on the management of violent and sexual offenders.

Skeer was awarded the Queen’s Policing Medal in 2017 for distinguished service and was appointed OBE in the King’s 2023 Birthday Honours. She also served as President of the British Association of Women in Policing.

Speaking about her appointment, Skeer said: “I am honoured to be appointed to this important role at a pivotal time for police forces and fire & rescue services. The inspectorate plays a vital role in identifying problems early, supporting improvements and promoting best practice. I look forward to building on the strong foundations established by Sir Andy Cooke.

“I am committed to making sure HMICFRS continues to provide independent, evidence-based oversight, focused on ensuring the public receives the service they expect and deserve. Our work is essential to making communities safer.”

HMICFRS is responsible for independently assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of police forces and fire and rescue services across England.

We spoke to HMI Kathryn Stone OBE on a recent episode of For Every Response. Catch up below to hear more about what HMIs do.