Alex Rennie Appointed as Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner

Alex Rennie has been formally appointed as the new Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner (DPCC) for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, following approval by the region’s Police and Crime Panel yesterday, Thursday, 4 September.

The appointment was made by Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones, who announced her intention to bring Rennie into the role last month. Following the panel hearing in Winchester, Commissioner Jones said she was “delighted” by the panel’s approval and welcomed Rennie to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).

“In July, the Home Office confirmed that police governance responsibilities will remain with me as PCC until April 2027, extending beyond the originally expected date of May 2026,” Jones said. “The appointment of Alex as Deputy will ensure the OPCC can continue delivering for Hampshire and Isle of Wight residents as we prepare for the evolving landscape of devolution.”

Jones praised Rennie’s background in public sector leadership, describing him as being in “an excellent position” to support the work of the OPCC and Hampshire Constabulary.

“Alex brings extensive experience in public sector leadership, managing large-scale public budgets, working into government, and shaping policy—particularly in local government. This will be a huge benefit to the OPCC and the police force,” she added.

Rennie previously served as Leader of Havant Borough Council, where he led organisational transformation and collaborated with the OPCC to secure funding for the Safer Streets initiative. His background also includes roles as a Senior Advisor to the Shadow Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury and as Chief of Staff to a Member of Parliament. He is also a co-founder of UK Friends of Ukraine, a charity coordinating humanitarian aid for those affected by the war.

Speaking about his new role, 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 the Isle of Wight.”

He stated that he shares the PCC’s vision of improving safety and tackling the root causes of crime.
“I have seen first-hand how drugs gangs and anti-social behaviour can have a devastating impact on our communities and l am keen to continue to support the PCC’s work in helping prevent crimes from happening and supporting victims when they do,” Rennie said. “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,” added Rennie.

Rennie will officially begin his role with the OPCC later this month.