An Indian-origin financial expert has been appointed as the new chief strategy and investment officer at the Metropolitan Police.Hardev Verdi was previously Group Finance Director at Barts Health NHS Trust and has spent more than a decade working in senior finance roles across the NHS, including roles at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust and Wandsworth CCG.The appointment was announced on Tuesday, with the Metropolitan Police saying Verdi would help lead the force’s long-term strategy, investment and commercial planning during a period of financial stress and regulatory reform.“I am delighted to join the Met at such an important time,” Verdi said, according to PTI.“Having worked in the NHS for many years, I am excited to continue my commitment to public service.
This is a challenging role, and I look forward to working closely with colleagues and partners to deliver on the Metropolitan Police’s vision and leverage investments and resources to support policing on the Metropolitan Police’s frontline.Mark Rowley, Metropolitan Police Commissioner, welcomed the appointment and praised Verdi’s leadership and financial expertise.“I look forward to welcoming Hardev to the Metropolitan Museum to provide his expertise, energy and insight to support officers and staff,” Rowley said.
“He was hugely impressive in the selection process.”Rowley added that Verdi’s experience in strategic leadership and organizational transformation will help the police force continue reforms while working to close a significant financial gap.Verdi is also vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accounting, and is expected to become president of the organization later this year.
