The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has officially welcomed its new Deputy Commissioner of Regional Operations, John Tims, after a swearing in ceremony this week.
Deputy Commissioner Tims brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served more than 38 years in law enforcement, governance, and organisational transformation, primarily with the New Zealand Police.
As a former Deputy Commissioner of the New Zealand Police, Mr Tims oversaw national operations across 12 districts, managing more than 10,000 staff and driving major reforms across the organisation.
Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski welcomes Deputy Commissioner Tims and his wealth of transnational experience in strategic leadership and operational policing.
"Deputy Commissioner Tims brings decades of experience in leading police with great integrity, respect and courage,'' Commissioner of Police Gollschewski said.
"His proven leadership and collaborative approach will help strengthen organisational culture and support our people to keep Queenslanders safe.
"He will help strengthen frontline operations, capability and inclusion across Queensland.''
Since leaving the New Zealand Police in December 2022, Deputy Commissioner Tims continued to advise on justice, governance and organisational resilience, serving on New Zealand's Ministerial Advisory Group on Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime.
He also led reviews and advisory projects for agencies across the Pacific and government sectors.
Deputy Commissioner Tims said he was thrilled and honoured to be joining the QPS.
"It's an absolute privilege to join the QPS and to now serve alongside so many dedicated and professional individuals who are working to deliver safety and security to the people of Queensland,'' Deputy Commissioner Tims said.
"This opportunity is an exciting challenge and a chance to show how passionate I am about contributing meaningfully to police operations across the state's regions.''
Deputy Commissioner Tims joins two other newly appointed Deputy Commissioners in the QPS, forming part of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT):
- Deputy Commissioner People and Assets, Mark Kelly
Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly was Acting Deputy Commissioner, Regional Operations for more than 18 months, he led state operations overseeing community safety, resource management and regional performance. Deputy Commissioner Kelly has more than 36 years' experience within the QPS, including senior leadership across regional, operational and specialist portfolios.
- Deputy Commissioner Disaster and Emergency Management, Chris Stream
Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream was officially appointed after acting in the position for more than 10 months. Deputy Commissioner Stream has more than 34 years' experience within the QPS, including extensive executive leadership across policing, emergency management and public safety reform.
A career with the Queensland Police Service offers diverse roles, unique challenges, and the chance to make a real difference every day. From emergency response and crime prevention to community engagement and public safety, no two days are ever the same.
From our bustling cities to remote towns and pristine coastline, policing in Queensland offers a career and lifestyle as diverse as the communities you'll serve.
Looking for a career that stands for more? Stand with us in a challenging and rewarding career. Visit policerecruit.qld.gov.au to apply now.
