A NEW chief executive has been appointed to the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Dan Steadman’s selection was considered at a confirmation hearing by the Police and Crime Panel at County Hall, Dorchester today.

Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill introduced Mr Steadman, who was chosen from 16 applicants.

He previously worked in as interim chief executive at the office of the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner.

The Dorset police and crime panel is made up of representatives from the county council and all of Dorset's borough and district councils, plus two independent members.

All members agreed to the new appointment despite an original objection from Bournemouth Borough Councillor David Smith who wished to know more about Mr Steadman.

Mr Steadman, 42, was put forward as the preferred candidate following an interview panel which included Mr Underhill, chief constable Debbie Simpson and a panel member.

The new addition succeeds Martin Goscomb, who retired in June.

Mr Steadman said: “I am very much looking forward to working with Martyn Underhill, the team, the Force and partner agencies in delivering the Police and Crime Plan.”

His role will include a responsibility to manage the staff team and provide a monitoring role to ensure that standards remain high.

Mr Steadman said he will work to improve relationships between the Martyn Underhill and the panel and attend panel and senior meetings.

He added: "I have already been working to forge relationships with senior police staff."

Chairman of the panel John Adams said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr Steadman.”

Mr Steadman joined Sussex Police Authority in 2004 where he worked in variety of management roles, including acting and deputy chief executive.

Previously, he worked as a director for a recruitment company and as a commissioned officer for the Royal Air Force.

Speaking after the appointment, Mr Underhill said: “I welcome the appointment of Mr Steadman who excelled in a rigorous selection process, which attracted 16 applicants.

“Mr Steadman has a wealth of experience in the criminal justice system.

“I would like to thank Dorset Police and Crime Panel for confirming the selection panel’s decision and to the other applicants for their time.”

He added: “I would also like to thank Martin Goscomb for his loyal service for Dorset Police, Dorset Police Authority and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and I wish him well in his retirement.”

Chief Constable Debbie Simpson added: “I look forward to working with Mr Steadman to deliver the operational parts of the Police and Crime Plan and in doing so, to work towards our shared vision of a Dorset that is safer for all our communities and visitors.”

The Police and Crime panel hold confirmation hearings for key members of staff.

The Panel will not be able to refuse appointments but can make recommendations to the PCC Dorset's Police and Crime Panel (PCP) has been established to examine the actions and decisions of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).

The panel aims to ensure that relevant information is made available to the public so that they can effectively hold the PCC to account.