Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s Police and Crime Panel has officially approved the appointment of Alex Rennie as the new Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC).
The decision was confirmed at a hearing in Winchester on 4 September, following the announcement last month by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones of her intention to bring Alex into the role.
PCC Donna Jones Welcomes Appointment
Following the panel’s approval, Donna Jones said she was “delighted” Alex will be joining the team:
“In July, the Home Office confirmed that police governance responsibilities will remain with me as the PCC until 1 April 2027 and not May 2026 as previously expected.
“The appointment of Alex as Deputy will ensure the OPCC can continue delivering for Hampshire & Isle of Wight residents as we prepare for the evolving landscape of devolution.
“Alex brings extensive experience in public sector leadership, managing large scale public sector budgets, working into government and managing policy particularly in local government.”This will be a huge benefit to the OPCC and the police force.”
Who Is Alex Rennie?
Alex Rennie previously served as Leader of Havant Borough Council, where he helped deliver safer streets funding in collaboration with the OPCC.
His career includes:
- Senior Advisor to the Shadow Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury
- Chief of Staff to an MP
- Co-founder of UK Friends of Ukraine, coordinating humanitarian aid for those affected by the war
Alex Rennie Responds To Appointment
Speaking after his confirmation, Alex Rennie said:
“I am extremely proud to take on this new role in helping support the Police and Crime Commissioner in her efforts to cut crime and make our communities safer.
“Having worked in the public sector for the past decade, I am passionate about serving the people of Hampshire and Isle of Wight.”I share the PCC’s vision of making our towns, cities and villages safer places to live, work and visit.
“I have seen first-hand how drugs gangs and anti-social behaviour can have a devastating impact on our communities and I am keen to continue to support the PCC’s work in helping prevent crimes from happening and supporting victims when they do.
“Having more police on our streets is key to that and the PCC’s Local Bobby scheme, alongside the opening of police station front counters, helps reassure the public we’re working hard to make sure that happens.
“I look forward to engaging with Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s dedicated police officers, staff, volunteers, and community leaders.”
Alex will formally begin his new role with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) later this month.
