Dear Members,
As detailed within the recent edition of Under Cover, General Secretary Simon Boon steps down today from a role he has held since 2017, across two terms of office - in order to support his wife as she takes on an Agency posting overseas.
Whilst this has been in the planning stages for quite some time, Simon made it clear at the outset that the smooth running of the NCOA would be a priority. Although it was originally intended that he would step down as soon as a replacement had been identified – circumstances now see him step down with immediate effect, in order to change roles ahead of an election process to find his successor.
As an interim measure, National Officer Steve Bond will fill the vacant General Secretary position in an Acting capacity, to help deliver consistency and stability as the Agency prepares to deliver (through the annual pay process), its vision on Pay and Contract Reform. Whilst the NCOA has little more than a general overview of what this will look like for you as officers, it is clear that your General Secretary needs to be readily available to meet any challenges we are likely to face, over the next few months.
Simon said, ‘Whilst I have often reflected openly on the steady growth of membership since 2013, it is often forgotten that the NCOA has also become a very successful business, which has also grown considerably. The challenges are sometimes enormous, and it is a testament to our small workforce that the NCOA continues to professionally deliver in a demanding environment. Some of us have had to pick up new skills along the way which really are a world apart from our law enforcement careers or even member representation and support.
"This has been recognised by the National Executive Committee who quite recently reached out to offer me an alternative role which will be more focused on the business side of the NCOA, whilst also being available to provide support to and advice to the new General Secretary and President as necessary.
"Since we started on this roller coaster 11years ago, no one could have known how the future would pan out but, with dedication, hard work and a little bit of luck, we now protect and support more officers than ever before. Whilst it has not always been plain sailing, I can place my hand on my heart when I say, I really did try my best as General Secretary, and hope that my own law enforcement background and experience was of benefit in the unique employer/employee engagement world of the National Crime Agency.
"I am truly delighted that my journey with the NCOA has not yet come to an end, and know that I can definitely continue to add value to the NCOA Trade Union - recognising that it can’t be as General Secretary. I also wish my successor the best of luck and know that who ever that might be, you will all continue to be in safe and knowledgeable hands’.
I am personally both delighted and relieved to keep Simon on board as NCOA CEO, whose skills and experience are second to none, ensuring that members will continue to receive the very best from this uniquely exclusive Trade Union of the NCA.
Regards
Simon Bashford
NCOA President