Highest recognition from the National Crime Agency for intelligence expert
A fascination with the inner workings of the intelligence services has led to one of our academics receiving the highest recognition of the National Crime Agency - the Director General's Commendation.
Dr Rob Dover is Associate Professor in Intelligence and International Security in the School of History, Politics and International Relations. His commendation recognises his outstanding contribution to the professionalisation of officers, and his contribution to the internationalisation of the National Crime Agency through the 5 Eyes Strategic Intelligence Programme.
The NCA is an intelligence-led law enforcement agency that deals with some areas of crime and security issues that Dr Dover’s research focuses on. All intelligence agencies have gone through processes of professionalisation and change since the inquiries of the early 2000s. The NCA is the latest to take on this challenge as they seek to address the rapidly proliferating, diverse and complex challenges they face.
Dr Dover has worked both as an academic and has advised various parts of government on this agenda. Using his research insights into intelligence transformation he has been able to assist the NCA in their own professionalisation process, in the role of critical friend.
His experience working closely with intelligence professionals even informs his approach to teaching as his courses are designed to help students become more critically engaged citizens, to challenge on the basis of evidence and to be able to communicate with a great deal of precision.
Commenting on his commendation, Dr Dover said: “It's a rare treat! The Commendation is the highest award given by the Agency itself in recognising exceptional contributions to its work. As academics we do not often get such conspicuous recognition for our efforts and I feel proud to have been recognised in this way."