From Local Roots to County Role: Nicola Ross Officially Named High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire has welcomed a familiar and respected local figure into one of its oldest civic roles, as Nicola “Nikki” Ross was formally declared the county’s 792nd High Sheriff.
The declaration service took place on Friday (27th March) at the Old Gaol in Buckingham, a setting rich in local history, marking the beginning of Nikki’s year in office as the King’s representative in the county.
Though the role dates back more than 1,000 years, today’s High Sheriff plays an active part in supporting the county’s justice system and wider community, working closely with police, probation and prison services, emergency responders, and the many charities and organisations helping to keep Buckinghamshire safe.
For Nikki, the appointment holds a deep personal meaning. Born and raised in Buckingham, she has spent more than four decades living and working in the area. Educated at the Royal Latin School and the University of Buckingham, she has long been part of the local community and is passionate about its continued growth as a place where everyone feels supported and included.
She brings with her an extensive career in public service, having spent over 35 years with Thames Valley Police. Much of her time was dedicated to serving communities across Milton Keynes and North Buckinghamshire, before rising to Assistant Chief Constable, leading local policing across the Thames Valley.
Following her policing career, Nikki continued to support those affected by crime and the justice system as Chief Executive of the charity Hope After Harm, formerly Thames Valley Partnership. Although she retired from full-time work in 2024, she has remained closely involved in the voluntary sector through trustee roles and community engagement.
As High Sheriff, Nikki has chosen to focus her year on raising awareness of neurodiversity within the criminal justice system, an area she believes deserves far greater attention locally and nationally. She hopes to bring together organisations across Buckinghamshire to better understand the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and to encourage earlier, more effective support.
Speaking about her appointment, Nikki said: “To take on this role in the place where I grew up means a great deal to me. Buckinghamshire has given me so much over the years, and I care deeply about its future. I’d love to see our communities continue to thrive in a way that feels open, understanding and inclusive for everyone. This year is an opportunity to listen, bring people together and highlight important issues. As someone with ADHD, I’m particularly passionate about raising awareness of neurodiversity, where greater understanding can make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Nikki, a mother of twin sons, remains based locally and is looking forward to meeting residents, volunteers and organisations across the county over the coming months.
The Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Countess Elizabeth Howe, said: “Nikki’s background in policing gives her an added advantage and a real insight into law and order in the county over many years. Alongside that, her focus on neurodiversity, something she has lived experience of, is another great strength.
“The role of High Sheriff offers an extraordinary platform to convene, collaborate and work with others for the benefit of our communities. Having that additional perspective on the law brings a real sense of confidence to the role, and strong local roots are critical in understanding and supporting communities across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.”
Nikki's year as High Sheriff will focus on celebrating the work already happening across Buckinghamshire, while helping to build stronger connections between services and communities.