In this first part of a three-part PolicingTV series, Deputy Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst reflects on the setbacks, persistence and career decisions that shaped her journey into senior policing. Now Programme Lead for the NPCC Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, Catherine explains why she was drawn to policing, how she was rejected more than once before eventually joining, and what those early experiences taught her about resilience.
The conversation also explores her move from a graduate career with Tesco into Greater Manchester Police, her early promotion through the High Potential Development Scheme, and her later transfer to Hertfordshire. Catherine speaks openly about failing promotion boards, dealing with rejection and learning how to approach selection processes without losing sight of family priorities or personal values.
The conversation continues on 1st October, with Part Two exploring ‘why neighbourhood policing remains central to public trust and confidence’. Be sure to tune in.
Key takeaways
- Catherine Akehurst did not grow up expecting to become a police officer.
- Her first attempts to join policing ended in rejection, including a failed fitness test and final interview.
- A graduate management role at Tesco gave her early experience of leadership, decision-making and dealing with difficult situations.
- Policing continued to draw her back, leading her to successfully join Greater Manchester Police in 2003.
- She was encouraged onto the High Potential Development Scheme despite initially being unsure it was right for her.
- Catherine transferred to Hertfordshire shortly after probation and progressed quickly into sergeant rank.
- She says repeated promotion setbacks were frustrating but each one taught her something useful.
- Her advice is to keep going if others believe in your ability, but pursue progression on your own terms.
Chapters
00:34 – Meet Deputy Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst
03:27 – Rejected before she even joined
05:17 – From Tesco management to policing
06:28 – Why policing drew her back
08:31 – Joining the High Potential Development Scheme
10:38 – Moving forces and progressing through the ranks
13:18 – What rejection really feels like
16:00 – Keep going, but on your terms
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