Essex Police deputy chief constable Derek Benson has been named in the Queen's birthday honours list and awarded a Queen's Police Medal.
The top officer, who joined Essex Police in 2006 following a career with the Metropolitan Police, was honoured for distinguished service to the public.
Mr Benson said: "It's an honour to receive this award.
"I have been lucky enough to work with so many fantastic colleagues both here in Essex and in the Met. It has been a privilege to work for two such great forces.
"To receive the QPM for doing the job I love is just the icing on the cake."
Mr Benson, who raises money for charity in his spare time, has most recently held responsibility of considering how the force can best cope with sweeping budget cuts.
The father-of-three also likes walking his dog, playing five-a-side football and running in his spare time.
Chief constable Stephen Kavanagh said: "This award is fantastic news and I would like to say huge congratulations to Derek.
"He truly is dedicated to serving the people of Essex and it's great to see his hard work recognised.
"Derek has been a huge support to me since I became chief constable in May last year and he is also a huge support to officers and police staff. "
