Paul Gibson will bring a wealth of experience to the portfolio, most recently as NPCC Forensic Marketplace Lead. Paul began his career 23 years ago as a police constable and later detective and ACC in Lincolnshire, before joining Derbyshire in 2018 and spending six months seconded to the NPCC Transforming Forensics programme. He holds a doctorate in molecular medicine.

In his role, Paul is responsible for leading policing’s transformation of digital forensics. This includes coordinating activity nationally, helping forces realise benefits and standardise practices, and directing the development of digital forensic services by Transforming Forensics and the Forensic Capability Network.

Congratulating Paul on his role, FCN’s CEO Jo Ashworth said: “Paul is passionate about digital forensics and a very credible lead to take on the huge challenges in this area. He’s forward-thinking, innovative and has an excellent track record in complex areas of forensics. Congratulations to Paul on his post and we all look forward to working with him.”

NPCC Forensic Lead, Chief Constable James Vaughan added: "I would like to formally welcome Paul in this substantive role within the Forensic Portfolio, I very much look forward to working with him and wish him every success in the role."