A Moray man who ascended the heights of the police force is aiming to improve the lives of more than 20,000 needy Scots as the boss of one of the country’s biggest charities.
Neil Richardson, from Keith, made it to Deputy Chief Constable of Police Scotland after spending three decades combating crime.
He was a candidate for the nation’s top policing job after the retirement of Sir Stephen House last year, but was narrowly edged out.
Now, looking for a fresh challenge after departing the force, he has been announced as the chief executive of Turning Point Scotland.
The national body offers invaluable assistance to people with alcohol and drug addictions, mental health problems and learning difficulties.
It has bases across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray.
Mr Richardson will assume the reins of the organisation in January, meaning he will head up 1,200 volunteers determined to help those who are unable to help themselves.
The 50-year-old joined the Lothian and Borders police force in 1985, and worked his way through the ranks across more than 30 years in uniform.
In 2011, he was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal, which is presented to officers for “distinguished service”.
And the following year, he was appointed as the Deputy Chief Constable for Police Scotland.
In 2014 he was awarded an OBE for services to policing in Scotland.
During his time on the force, Mr Richardson was given a harrowing insight into the conditions some people live in.
And after leaving the police earlier this year, he grew determined to make a difference in the lives of troubled individuals.
Mr Richardson said his time pounding the beat in Central Belt divisions had made him “an experienced leader”.
He added: “During my time with the police, I worked directly with many social care organisations.
“I offer a proven track record of which I hope will add real value to the aspirations of Turning Point Scotland.
“It is an honour for me to have the opportunity to play a part in such a worthwhile organisation.
“I am joining one of Scotland’s most respected social care charities, an organisation that offers a better future for some of the most vulnerable in our society.”
Turning Point Scotland also helps people with autism, and those who are homeless.
Its counsellors also visit prisons to help inmates plan their life on the outside and offer them guidance on how to avoid falling back into old habits.
The charity’s chairwoman, Sheila Fazal, said Mr Richardson saw off some quality competition to land the charity’s top job.
She added: “”We were pleasantly surprised at the volume and quality of applications for the chief executive role.
“After an extensive, thorough and rigorous process there was an overwhelming consensus amongst our board that Mr Richardson was the right person to take our charity forward.
“He will join us in January, and will lead an organisation supporting over 21,000 people to improve their life, lifestyles and life expectations.
“He will work with a staff of 1,200 people, currently working in 22 local authority areas.”