A Calling That Took a Different Route
My journey into policing began with a simple ambition: to become a police officer. But when recruitment was paused, I didn’t wait. Instead, I enrolled in a Policing degree and whist doing so also became a Special Constable with the Met. From Hendon, I immersed myself in frontline policing based at Wembley where I was exposed to response, neighbourhoods, operations, events, even gang units.
I’ll never forget my second shift: the 2011 London riots. Nor will I forget patrolling outside Buckingham Palace during the 2012 Olympics. These moments were intense and unforgettable. But they also gave me a deeper understanding of the role—and shifted my path.
Finding My Place at BTP
In 2013, I joined BTP as a PNC and Records Officer updating court results, bail conditions, and warrants. The role and team culture were amazing and shaped my values and foundations that I still abide by today. A year later, I became a Witness and Case Officer, supporting victims and witnesses while building case files—still paper-based at the time. It was hands-on, rewarding work that deepened my understanding of the justice system and gave me a sense of purpose.
As my confidence grew, so did my ambition for making a difference. I moved into management, first as a Witness and Case Manager, then later as a Justice Team Manager. Here, I led the transition from paper to digital case files through the NICHE system—a major organisational shift that demanded precision, quality, and resilience.
From Projects to Purpose
That exposure to transformation sparked something in me. I moved into project management, leading strands of the Target Operating Model programme—working with Deloitte to redesign BTP’s future. It was intense, timebound, and deeply rewarding.
This evolved into the BTP 2021 programme, where I led reviews across Criminal Justice, Intelligence, Covert Policing, and CCTV. These weren’t just projects—they were people, processes, and futures. And I was proud to help shape them.
Changing the Narrative in Technology
In 2019, I stepped into the Technology department as a Senior Project Manager. At the end of my interview, I was asked, “Why on earth do you want to join us?” My answer: “To change that opinion.”
And I meant it.
I led the End User Compute project—replacing 12-year-old devices, upgrading to Windows 10, and exploiting Microsoft 365 capabilities. It was a logistical mountain, made steeper by COVID-19, global supply chain issues, and chip shortages. But we did it. And I was honoured to receive a Chief Constable’s Commendation for the work.
Leading with Vision
As Head of IT Portfolio Delivery, I brought structure to chaos—mapping and coordinating all digital projects across BTP. There was no central plan when I started, but we built one. I loved this role for the collaboration it fostered and the innovation it enabled.
Now, as Head of IT Operations, I lead teams responsible for service management, digital productivity, and end-user experience. I’m passionate about making technology work for people—so they can do their best work, every day. In 2025, I even shared our journey on the Digital Employee Experience (DEX) Podcast.
Making the Impossible, Possible
In 2024, I took a short secondment to the Estates team—supporting the exit from Camden HQ, exit from Albany B Division HQ, the relocation of the fallback control room, and the opening of BPR. It was like a key exchange when you move house, but on a much larger scale. It was fast-paced, high-stakes, and sometimes called “the impossible task.” But with over 500 contractors working 24/7 and incredible internal resilient people, we made it happen. I’m proud to have played a part in that moment of transformation and BTP history.
Reflections on a Journey Unscripted
Looking back, my career wasn’t planned—it was built on saying “yes” to opportunity. I’ve worked across departments, led change, and grown through challenge. I’ve been supported by brilliant leaders and teams, and I’ve never stopped learning. I am forever grateful to those that have enabled me to be exposed to opportunities along the way.
BTP is more than a workplace—it’s a place where service, innovation, and teamwork come together to make a difference. I’m proud of my journey, and I’m excited for the future. BTP is a great place to work, and I look forward to my future with you all here at BTP; working together to be guardians of the railway.
To anyone considering a career in policing or technology: be curious, be bold, and be ready. You never know where the next opportunity might take you.
