Reflecting on an incredible journey

As I step down as managing director of the Cyber Resilience Centre for Wales (WCRC), I do so not only at a pivotal moment for the organisation, with a restructure of the wider network in progress, but also as I formally retire from policing after 30 years of public service.

This moment represents both an end and a beginning—a time to reflect, to give thanks, and to look forward.

When I took on the role of leading the WCRC just over four and a half years ago, it was a daunting prospect to set up and run a not-for-profit company on behalf of policing. Since then, we’ve worked relentlessly to develop a nationally respected centre that now supports more than 3,700 members. We’ve helped organisations across Wales understand and manage cyber risks—translating what appear to be complex challenges into practical steps they can take to become more secure and resilient, whether they are sole traders, charities, SMEs, or micro-businesses.

Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Building something new—especially as ambitious and cross-cutting as the WCRC—comes with its fair share of challenges. We’ve faced funding pressures, navigated uncertainty, and yes, encountered a few difficult conversations along the way. But those moments have only reinforced the value and necessity of what we’re doing. And throughout it all, we have had incredible support, insight, and encouragement from Welsh chief officers and local policing, business leaders, Welsh Government, local authorities, academic partners, and other frontline organisations.

That sense of shared purpose has been the real driving force behind our success. Together, we’ve developed initiatives like the Cyber Ninja programme for the social care sector with Welsh Government and rolled out Incident Response Event sessions for SMEs across the country. We have built a model of collaboration that blends policing expertise with business engagement and public service values.

I’ve been privileged to work alongside a committed and passionate team at the WCRC, and the centre’s reputation as a top performing part of the UK-wide network is a testament to their efforts. I’m also proud of the genuine partnerships we’ve developed with organisations across Wales—proof that when sectors come together with a shared goal, real impact follows.

As part of my wider policing career, I’ve served in some incredibly challenging and rewarding roles—starting in the Metropolitan Police in 1995 and joining South Wales Police in 2009. From leading major investigations to directing regional cybercrime and fraud units, my focus has always been on protecting the public and driving innovation.

Along the way, I’ve had the honour of leading complex investigations, directing regional cyber and fraud units, and driving innovative prevention work. Highlights include being recognised at the NPCC Digital Investigation and Intelligence Awards, earning a Chief Constable’s Commendation for youth cybercrime prevention, and developing national cybercrime strategies that left a lasting impact.

I was also grateful to receive a letter from the Chief Constables of Wales, recognising my contribution, commitment and dedication to the police service. To receive that kind of acknowledgement from senior policing colleagues means a great deal. It reminds me that, even in the face of challenges, this work has made a real difference—and that the legacy of the WCRC is one of progress, resilience, and collaboration.

As I now take a step back and look toward the future, I do so with immense gratitude—for the opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve worked with, and the mission we’ve advanced together. The WCRC is well-placed to continue evolving, growing, and supporting businesses and communities across Wales.

To all of you—thank you. Thank you for the trust, the partnership, the occasional tough conversations, and above all, for your belief in the importance of what we set out to achieve.

It has truly been an honour.

Paul Peters