Simon Nelson has over twenty-nine years of experience as Police Officer and now serves as the Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor at the College of Policing. He has gathered invaluable experience as a strategic leader working in several high-profile roles on both local and national levels of the Police Department over the years. He is now available to speak at a range of events on overcoming adversity, leading with difference, disabilities and how to manage diverse teams.
Simon was left with a disability after he was treated for an unexpected occurrence of stomach cancer that led to the removal of his stomach in 2004. Determined to return to work as soon as possible, he took on the responsibility of leading disability issues, offering his expertise and support. Before he was appointed as a Temporary Superintendent of Sussex Police and made in charge of developing joint services with the Brighton and Hove City Council, Simon performed several policing roles such as critical incident command training, performance management, and executive support. He was later promoted to Superintendent of Criminal Justice and Custody and worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service and Her Majesty’s Court and Tribunals Service. Appointed as the National Police Disability Tactical Lead for the Disabled Police Association and Police Superintendents Association, Sussex Police in 2020 he performed this role for three years. He frequently wrote blogs for the Police Superintendents' Association during his tenure as well.
Recently retired from his position of three years as President of the Disabled Police Association, Simon has held several eminent positions throughout his career such as Criminal Justice Lead, Superintendent of Criminal Justice and Custody, Chief Inspector of Operations, Estates and Future Workplace Programme Lead, Head of Policing Services. In 2023 he joined the College of Policing as Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, supporting and advising forces as they navigate the Police Race Action Plan and other DEI subjects. For his distinguished service in furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in Police Departments he was honoured with a QPM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours of 2022. He was also included in the 2023 Top 100 Most Influential People list.
An example of bouncing back from a challenging setback, Simon is an excellent speaker when it comes to discussing overcoming adversity, leading with change, and managing diverse teams. Currently, he serves as an Advisory Board member at Cancer Central, and National Executive Committee Member and Lead for Disabilities. His many years of service and vast experience in developing and implementing DEI strategies make him a formidable leader. A seasoned speaker with the experience of speaking at national-level stages, Simon Nelson will make the perfect choice for your next event. Hire him now!
