MPA statement: Assistant Commissioner Ian McPherson

14 September 2011

Assistant Commissioner (AC) Ian McPherson has given notice to the Chair of the MPA, Kit Malthouse, and informed Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner, Bernard Hogan-Howe, of his intention to retire from the MPS at the end of this year.
AC McPherson has headed the MPS Territorial Policing directorate - the largest command in the MPS, for the past two years, and has been responsible for developing a wide-ranging and innovative modernisation programme to reduce waste, increase effectiveness while continuing to cut crime and maintaining the MPS’ commitment to neighbourhood policing. He has 32 years service in the police and has served across the country in various senior positions, including Chief Constable of Norfolk.

Speaking today, AC McPherson said:

 ”I’m proud to have served 32 years in the British police service - the most respected police force in the world, and I’ll be taking all my experiences with me as I retire in order to pursue opportunities in the private sector.
“I’d like to thank my team, and the men and women of my command who every day go out to protect and serve the public - often putting their own lives at risk. I’m honoured to have worked with so many committed and dedicated people.

“I’d also like to express my sincere gratitude to the Chairman and members of the Metropolitan Police Authority."

Fully supporting the appointment of the new MPS Commissioner, AC McPherson added: “Bernard Hogan-Howe is the right man for the job who will provide the MPS with strong leadership in trying times, particularly in its continued drive towards reducing criminality in the city. I wish him every success and I’m sure he’ll achieve it.”

Incoming MPS Commissioner, Bernard Hogan-Howe, said: “Ian will be sorely missed by the British police service and especially here at the Met, where he has built on his great success as Chief Constable of Norfolk. In the Met he has initiated and overseen one of the largest change programmes in policing in order to cut red tape and waste, while at the same time maintaining quality policing services to the people of London.”

Chair of the MPA Kit Malthouse said: "I received Ian's retirement notice with a heavy heart. His time at Territorial Policing has been one of quiet revolution and clear focus that has paid significant dividends in crime reduction and value for money. Always constructive and imaginative, he has been a pleasure to work with and we should all be grateful for his dedication to the safety of others, not just in London, but throughout a remarkable career. It is no surprise that Ian's undoubted talents have been noticed outside policing and we wish him well."

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