Steve Williams joined the police service in Rhyl, North Wales back in 1984. He became a detective constable in 1987 and then a detective sergeant in 1992.
Williams was subsequently promoted to detective inspector in 1997 and has performed a variety of operational detective posts (including a couple of stints as an acting DCI, with the majority of his service having been spent within the detective arena).
He was seconded to the Police Federation of England and Wales’ Joint Central Committee (JCC) in March 2009 from his home force in North Wales and, since joining, has become a member of a number of sub-committees. Williams has also assumed responsibility for leading on detective issues within the Federation and helping to raise the profile of detectives within the police service in general.
Williams has sat on the Police Federation National Detective Forum since his arrival and, in April 2010, was elected its chairman. He’s also the JCC’s lead on all Welsh policing matters
The Police Federation’s chairman elect holds an MA in Police and Criminal Justice Studies which he gained from Exeter University, and has a number of other professional qualifications relating to the previous role he held in the banking sector before joining the police service.
Immense degree of expectation
“To receive the majority support as chairman elect of the Police Federation of England and Wales is indeed a prestigious honour,” commented Williams, “and places an immense degree of expectation on me to fulfil the high standards of leading the organisation in the footsteps of Paul McKeever, who has provided extraordinary dedication, guidance and commitment during his time in office.”
Williams continued: “I would wish to place on record my regards to Julie Nesbit, who was an equally credible candidate for the role.”
When he begins the task of fronting the Police Federation and taking the baton from McKeever, Williams will “carry out these duties with dedication, care and thoughtful consideration of the issues which impact on the service.”
He added: “To be successful requires a team of all Federation representatives, a Joint Central Committee and our key support staff all pulling together with a common purpose which is not deflected through division or unachievable aspirations.”
Difficult and complex journey for policing
Williams urged that what lies ahead is “a very difficult and complex journey” for policing “which will stretch and challenge the service to meet changes unprecedented in its history.”
He wishes to see the Police Federation “heighten its mission in influencing policy at all levels for the greater good”, stating: “I want us to strive to always improve the work life experience and value of all those we represent. I want the Government to never forget that the ‘Office of Constable’ sits at the forefront of British policing and that police officers are the bedrock of providing law and order.”
Williams concluded: “Over the coming months I will learn new things and draw upon experiences to set a hard personal agenda which will continue to advance our cause and make our voice heard with respect, credibility and coherence. My purpose and engagement will hopefully never falter through ignorance or lack of skill. I want to be clear with our communication and focused on delivering a united, well-argued case that successfully promotes the true values and purpose of this fine organisation.”