In this compelling interview, retired Inspector Dr. Simon Guilfoyle reflects on 30 years of frontline policing, leadership in moments of chaos, and the increasing complexity of modern policing. From facing petrol bombs during the 2024 riots to advocating for smarter systems thinking, Simon shares what has changed, what hasn’t, and why the next generation of officers face their toughest challenges yet.
He also discusses his journey from aspiring pop star to police leader, and how his passion for systems thinking and performance management is now helping forces across the UK.
Takeaways
- Simon joined the police after giving up on a music career—and stayed 30 years.
- He thrived in frontline chaos, leading teams through major critical incidents.
- The 2024 Liverpool riots were the most violent public disorder he ever faced.
- Leadership, teamwork, and tactics held the line under intense pressure.
- Today’s new officers face more challenges than ever before.
- Simon now applies systems thinking to help police forces improve performance.
- Policing has changed—“not better or worse, just different.”
Chapters
0:00 – Introduction & Simon’s Path into Policing
2:30 – Life on the Front Line: From Response to Firearms Command
5:20 – Liverpool Riots 2024: Chaos, Danger, and Leadership
12:50 – Then vs Now: Are Today’s Officers Facing More?
Subscribe for more leadership conversations from inside and beyond policing
We have launched a YouTube channel where you can also view our videos – just click here and please like and subscribe PTV Youtube
PolicingTV content is being brought to you in partnership with Kodex & World Policing Advisory
Kodex revolutionises the way organisations manage sensitive data requests from law enforcement and government agencies, transforming a traditionally complex process into a secure, streamlined workflow that ensures compliance, enhances security, and reduces operational costs.
Trusted by over 90,000 government agents and industry leaders like Binance, Airbnb, Match Group, and LinkedIn, Kodex sets the industry standard for secure data exchange — powered by a global intelligence network and advanced threat detection capabilities.
To learn more about Kodex, click here – If you are part of a government agency and need to create an account, click here
World Policing Advisory is a global consultancy specialising in the future of policing and public safety. We offer global policing expertise, delivered locally through a model focused on consulting with conscience.
Our teams have direct experience of strategic and tactical policing and private sector leadership, blended with the globe’s best subject matter expertise to create high impact value for money services with in-year benefits.
For more information contact our MD, Gary Stuart ([email protected])