Merseyside Police Chief Constable Serena Kennedy has announced her intention to retire from the force at the end of August 2025, after a distinguished career spanning over three decades.
Chief Constable Kennedy informed officers and staff of her decision on Tuesday morning, citing a desire to dedicate more time to her family and allow a new leader to prepare the force for its upcoming HMICFRS inspection in March 2026.
“After careful consideration, I have made the very difficult decision to retire as the Chief Constable of Merseyside Police on the 31st August 2025,” Chief Constable Kennedy stated. “The time is right for someone new to bring their vision and ideas to Merseyside Police and build on the work we have all done.”
She emphasized the importance of community-centered policing, stating that her decision was made with the best interests of the region in mind.
Chief Constable Kennedy joined Merseyside Police eight years ago, rising through the ranks to become the first female Chief Constable of the force in 2021.
During her tenure, she has navigated the force through a period marked by significant challenges and high-profile incidents, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the bombing at Liverpool Women’s Hospital, and the tragic murders of Sam Rimmer, Ashley Dale, Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Jackie Rutter, and Elle Edwards in 2022, as well as the terrible events at the Hart Space in Southport.
Despite these challenges, the force has also achieved significant successes under her leadership. These include the successful policing of major events like the Grand National Festival and the Eurovision Song Contest, advancements in tackling serious organized crime through initiatives like Project Medusa, improved responses to domestic abuse and rape investigations, and consistently high ratings from HMICFRS.
“It has been an extraordinary journey for me, and I have loved every moment of leading a police force which has its communities at the heart of everything it does,” she said.
Merseyside Police Commissioner Emily Spurrell expressed her gratitude for Chief Constable Kennedy’s service, saying, “On behalf of the people of Merseyside, I want to offer Serena my heartfelt and sincere thanks for her commitment to policing for more than three decades and for her dedication to Merseyside over the past eight years.”
Commissioner Spurrell praised Kennedy’s leadership during challenging times, highlighting her “unwavering courage, integrity, and dedication.”
The Police and Crime Commissioner will begin the process of appointing Chief Constable Kennedy’s successor later this month, ensuring a smooth transition for the force.
Chief Constable Kennedy will remain fully committed to her role until her retirement, leaving behind a legacy of strong leadership and community-focused policing.
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