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Mark Byers, the Chief Operating Officer of His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours.

A CBE is the highest class of the Order of the British Empire honour that does not carry a title. It sits at the level below a knighthood or damehood.

Mark has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to improving policing and security in the UK.

Most of Mark’s career has been spent in policing and security organisations, leading on HR, learning and capability development, operational support, security and contingency planning.

He joined HMICFRS in November 2020 as Chief Operating Officer, the most senior civil servant in the inspectorate. He works closely with HM Chief Inspector to lead the organisation on a day-to-day basis, and under his leadership the inspectorate has strengthened its position and influence across policing and fire and rescue services. He has also played a significant role in helping to both shape and respond to the government’s ambitious programme of police reform.

Immediately prior to joining HMICFRS, Mark worked in the Northern Ireland Office on a range of corporate, security and contingency planning issues, including planning in Northern Ireland for events including EU exit and the demise of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Mark’s honour also recognises his voluntary work, including with grassroots and community rugby across the East Midlands.

His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services Michelle Skeer OBE QPM recently said: 

“Mark has dedicated his career to making our communities safer and this honour is thoroughly deserved.

“His leadership of the inspectorate has been exceptional. Under his direction, our work has gone from strength to strength, and he has played an essential role in making sure the inspectorate is efficient, effective and a great place to work.”

Chief Operating Officer Mark Byers CBE recently said:

“I am delighted to have been included in His Majesty’s birthday honours list.

“For the past 25 years, I have been privileged to work with some of the very brightest, bravest and most dedicated colleagues one could hope for. Day in day out, they work tirelessly to keep this country and all our communities safer.

“This work has never been more complex, contested or important. I am proud to have the opportunity to continue trying to make a positive difference.”

Steve Wilson, Chair of Kettering Rugby Football Club, recently said:

“Mark has been a tireless volunteer for the past 15 years, both at the club where he currently serves as our club and disciplinary secretary, but also in organising the wide range of competitions across boys and girls rugby throughout the East Midlands.

“Everyone at the club is delighted to see his contribution recognised in this way.”

Notes: 

At His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), we inspect, monitor and report on the efficiency and effectiveness of the police and fire and rescue services with the aim of encouraging improvement.