Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens announced her choice on Saturday (January 12th).
She said: “Nick is an experienced chief officer who has been working on a national level as Chief Constable and Chief Executive of the National Policing Improvement Agency.”
Mr Gargan, 47, said: “I am proud to take up the position of Chief Constable for Avon and Somerset Constabulary, subject to the confirmation hearing.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for me to work with the Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens. Together we will continue the force’s improvements in reducing crime and victim satisfaction.”
“My experience from the National Policing Improvement Agency and previous roles in Thames Valley and Leicestershire will enable me to make a real difference to the communities of Avon and Somerset.”
“I look forward to leading the very committed and dedicated police officers and staff within Avon and Somerset Constabulary.”
The decision is expected to be confirmed by the Police and Crime Panel, which meets on Wednesday.
If they approve Mr Gargan as the next Police Chief, he will take up his role on March 1st, 2013.
Deputy Chief Constable Rob Beckley will act up as Chief Constable on an interim basis from January 27th until Mr Gargan’s appointment takes effect.
Mr Gargan was chosen following two days of intensive selection where candidates met members of the Police and Crime Panel, carried out presentations and psychometric tests.
The appointments panel was made up of Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens, South-west Chief Crown Prosecutor Barry Hughes, independent HR expert Susan Lee (previously an accredited independent Public Appointments Assessor), former District Commander and Detective Chief Superintendent Steve Livings and PCC Chief Executive John Smith.
