The Police Federation of England and Wales has appointed two highly experienced independent non-executive directors as part of a major strengthening of the organisation’s governance, assurance and decision-making arrangements.

Dr Kirsty Darwent OBE has been appointed as Independent Non-Executive Director for HR, Quality & Governance, while David Doyle has been appointed as Independent Non-Executive Director for Finance, Audit & Risk.

The appointments follow a rigorous recruitment process conducted over several months, with more than 60 potential candidates considered before a shortlist was interviewed and presented to the National Board.

Melanie Warnes, Acting National Secretary, said: “These appointments mark a significant step forward for the Federation. Kirsty and David bring huge external expertise and independent challenge into the organisation at a time when strong governance, accountability and effective decision-making matter more than ever.

“This is about building a stronger, more accountable and more effective Federation for our members and the independent non-executive directors’ role will be to challenge us constructively, strengthen our decision-making and help ensure the Federation operates to the highest standards.”

Dr Kirsty Darwent OBE is an experienced board chair and non-executive director with a career spanning governance, leadership, workforce reform and organisational change.

She has held senior roles across a range of public and charitable organisations, including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Redress Scotland, NHS Ayrshire and Arran and the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Dr Darwent brings extensive expertise in board effectiveness, equality, remuneration and strategic oversight, alongside a strong track record of constructive challenge and inclusive decision-making.

David Doyle is an experienced non-executive director, audit and risk committee chair and Chartered Accountant, with a career spanning public sector audit, financial services, housing and charitable organisations.

Mr Doyle was previously Executive Director of the Australian National Audit Office. He has also held senior executive positions including Chief Risk Officer and Global Head of Internal Audit for major international financial organisations.

He brings extensive expertise in governance, audit and assurance, risk management, organisational transformation and financial oversight, with a strong track record of strengthening accountability, managing risk and improving organisational performance.

Independent non-executive directors provide independent expertise, external perspective and constructive challenge to an organisation’s board. They do not represent members and do not have executive responsibilities.

Dr Kirsty Darwent OBE and David Doyle have each been appointed for a three-year term, subject to the agreed arrangements.