The Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, Jane Mudd, has appointed Mark Hobrough as the new Chief Constable of Gwent Police.

Mark Hobrough has 29 years’ service, including four years with Gwent Police, and has acted as temporary Chief Constable since August 2024.

He was chosen following a robust and competitive selection process that included a public survey run throughout the summer, and a series of stakeholder interview panels involving partner organisations, community members, and children and young people.

The appointment was confirmed by the Gwent Police and Crime Panel at Caerphilly County Borough Council’s headquarters on Friday 13 December.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd said: “I am pleased to announce Mark Hobrough as the new Chief Constable of Gwent Police.

“As Police and Crime Commissioner I am committed to being as open and transparent as possible and have ensured that the residents of Gwent have been involved throughout the selection process.

“The feedback I have had from the interviews conducted by professional partners, community members, and children and young people was that Mark’s knowledge, and his dedication and commitment to the people of Gwent, was demonstrated strongly. This is also something that stood out to me and something that I value very highly.

“This will not be an easy job. As Commissioner my role is to ensure that the Chief Constable is delivering the best possible service to the people of Gwent, and I have very high expectations. However, I believe that Mark shares my passion for making Gwent a safer place for our residents and I am looking forward to working with him to make a real difference to our communities.”

Confirmation of the appointment of a Chief Constable by the Police and Crime Panel is a requirement under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011. The panel’s role is to ensure the selection and appointment process for Chief Constables is conducted openly and fairly.

Chief Constable Mark Hobrough said: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed to lead this police service which is made up of dedicated officers and staff who work tirelessly to serve our communities. It has been my privilege to serve as interim chief constable since August and I want to thank the commissioner and the panel for this continued opportunity.

“My mission is to strengthen trust and confidence in our police service by enhancing neighbourhood policing, increasing visibility, and addressing your concerns effectively. I am committed to ensuring our neighbourhoods are safe places for all residents and their families, while also supporting the most vulnerable individuals.

“I look forward to working with partners and the commissioner on our shared ambition of community safety and improving the quality of life for local residents, in particular young people.”