Lynne Ford, Head of Cyber at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC), is retiring after an exceptional 34-year career helping develop the capabilities that underpin the protection of the UK’s civil nuclear infrastructure.
From the formation of the CNC to leading its cyber security function, Lynne has played a key role in ensuring the organisation has the technology, expertise and assurance needed to deliver its specialist policing Mission.
As reliance on digital systems grows and the threat environment becomes increasingly complex, cyber security is central to protecting critical national infrastructure. Lynne’s leadership and expertise have helped ensure the CNC remains resilient, secure and prepared to meet these challenges.
Lynne began her career with the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) before transferring into the UKAEA Constabulary in November 2003. She formally became part of the newly established CNC shortly before the force’s inauguration in 2005.
Originally joining to support CNC application development, Lynne was promoted to IT Services Manager, where she became one of the technical leads responsible for separating CNC’s IT services from UKAEA. This work helped establish the foundations required for the constabulary to operate as an independent armed police force.
Throughout her career, Lynne has maintained a strong focus on information security and operational resilience. She was a key contributor to the IT Modernisation Programme and, in her role as Head of Cyber, has led the Cyber Team, overseeing security services and strengthening the organisation’s cyber capability.
Chief Constable Simon Chesterman said “Lynne’s career is a fantastic example of the expertise, commitment and professionalism our police staff bring to the CNC.
“Police staff play a pivotal role in everything we do. Without police staff, we simply wouldn’t have a frontline. Their specialist knowledge, skills and dedication provide the essential support that allows our officers to protect the UK’s civil nuclear sites and other critical national infrastructure.
“Cyber security is fundamental to protecting modern infrastructure, and Lynne has made an exceptional contribution to strengthening our resilience and ensuring we have the capability and assurance needed to support our policing mission.
“I would like to thank Lynne for her outstanding service over the last 34 years and wish her and her family every happiness for the future.”
Reflecting on her career, Lynne said “The last 34 years has been an incredible journey. It is a source of pride that we have had no significant incidents in the 22 years following my transfer from UKAEA IT in 2004.
“I am truly grateful for the real friendships made, experiences shared, lessons learned and the many memories that I treasure from my time in the UKAEAC and CNC. Now is my time to prioritise my family, at each end of the generation spectrum, and do more of everything.”
Alongside her professional responsibilities, Lynne has also made a significant contribution to the wider CNC community. She supported Prospect as Branch Secretary and later joined the CNC Welfare Fund Board in 2013, serving as Chair from December 2019 until stepping down ahead of her retirement.