The force said CC Hopkins was nominated for his “leadership of the force through significant changes to the policing landscape over the past decade, including reduced government funding, reducing officer numbers as well as the changing nature and complexity of crime”.

The award was presented to CC Hopkins at a virtual ceremony by businesswoman Olive Strachan MBE, who “recognised his strong focus on community engagement, clear decision making, ethical mind-set and vision for GMP’s future”.

On winning the award, CC Hopkins said: “It is lovely to receive the Public Sector Leadership Award, so thank you to the judges. I must however, pay tribute to the GMP officers and staff who work to make Greater Manchester a safe place.

“The last few months have highlighted the dedication of all those within GMP, who have delivered a service to 2.8 million people through these unprecedented times. Navigating new legislation and engaging with a community in uncertainty, their commitment has been outstanding.

“GMP is an exceptional organisation and I am proud to serve the public in my leadership of it.”

During the online awards ceremony CC Ian Hopkins spoke about how conversations about race can often be difficult, but that in order for forces to have “legitimacy” with the public, they needed to be representative of society.

He referred to the “success GMP has had in engaging with colleagues and the community to recruit officers and staff from Greater Manchester’s diverse communities”.

Ceremony hosts, IoD North West Regional Chair Mike Blackburn and Regional Director Claire Ebrey, said through his role as National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) Workforce Representation and Diversity portfolio, CC Ian Hopkins has championed the drive to increase representation across the police serve.

Director of the Year Awards recognises “exceptional leadership, business talent and good governance” across Britain.

The Public Sector Award, judged by members of the industry, celebrates public service leaders who “know how to get the best out of others' professional expertise and their contribution to civic society”.