THE outgoing deputy chief constable of Police Scotland has been shortlisted to be the next £117,000-a-year chief executive of Inverclyde Council.

Neil Richardson, whose time at the single force has been marked by controversy, will make his case directly to councillors tomorrow.

Mr Richardson has over 30 years’ experience in policing and completed lengthy stints at the legacy Strathclyde and Lothian and Borders forces.

Read more: Spy row deputy chief constable Neil Richardson to leave Police Scotland

The high point of his career was being made DCC at the amalgamated force, where he also stood in for the then chief constable Sir Stephen House.

However, he had portfolio responsibility for issues that attracted political and media criticism, such as the troubled i6 project that has yet to be delivered.

He was also the police chief in charge of the Counter Corruption Unit (CCU), which unlawfully used its spying powers in a bid to flush out journalists’ sources.

The scandal prompted parliamentary hearings and led to Mr Mr Richardson giving oral evidence in front of MSPs.

Read more: Police Scotland DCC Neil Richardson to to leave force

His CCU link is believed to have been a factor in his failed bid to become chief constable of the force.

In March, Police Scotland announced Mr Richardson, who earned £169,600 a year, would not seek a second term and would be retiring.

The 50 year old formally leaves the force soon and will be entitled to a generous lump sum and his police pension.

However, Mr Richardson may be in line for an imminent comeback.

Inverclyde Council covers 81,000 people and includes Gourock, Greenock, Inverkip, Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow.

It is understood that he and Aubrey Fawcett, the council’s Corporate Director, are the two contenders to replace John Mundell as chief executive.

Read more: Spy row deputy chief constable Neil Richardson to leave Police Scotland

A spokesperson for the council explained the process: "The final stage of the interview process is a presentation and interview involving the full council meeting. The successful candidate needs to get the support of two thirds of the councillors present. The successful candidate requires a two thirds majority. If that does not happen, the post is re-advertised."

The job comes with a salary of £116,969 and the advertisement for the post stated: "We're looking for an inspirational leader, with a proven track record and a commitment to excellence.

"As Chief Executive, you will lead the organisation, ensure our strategic and service partnerships are working well and will embed excellence into everything the council does.

“With a proven track record leading a multi-disciplined, complex organisation, you will be able to clearly evidence your ability to inspire and motivate staff at all levels.

“You will be at home leading an organisation through challenging times while keeping a clear focus on outcomes which matter to the communities we serve."

The outgoing police chief is listed as living in West Dunbartonshire and has a limited company called Richar Consulting Ltd.

Mr Richardson did not comment.