AlixPartners’ Post

Ben Cadd’s reason for joining the Thames Valley Police was simple. “I wanted to do something that felt like it mattered and had value. Frankly, I wanted to do something that helped people,” he said. As a police officer on the front lines, he was able to do just that. From handling domestic disputes, to tackling local crime, and even helping an elderly lady in a fraud case, Ben was committed to making a difference. Within six years, he made his way up the ranks to Sergeant. Alongside his experience in the field was Ben’s passion and interest in digital forensics. So, when he got the opportunity to lead the force’s first-ever Digital Investigation and Intelligence Team, he jumped at the chance—bringing a people-first approach to his tech-driven role. “Early in my career I remember being told many times that we should always treat the people we were dealing with as if they were our own family. We wanted people to have positive and helpful experiences with the police,” Ben explained. “In my job now, I don’t get that feeling in the same way, but I am still helping people.” A Vice President in our eDiscovery practice, Ben works in forensic data collection. You may not expect it, but he travels often; he’s collected data in Africa, Indonesia, and different parts of Europe, this year alone. “You’re not just at a desk writing code. There’s a people aspect to it where you have to explain technical things to non-technical people,” he said. “A big part of the forensic collection process is making somebody feel comfortable, trust in the process and in us.” That ability to connect with others is what Ben, a natural introvert, prides himself on. It’s a skill that he started developing in the police force that he’s now honed to better serve our clients and empower his colleagues. Because at the end of the day you’ve got to be there for your people, especially when it really matters. “People have thoughts and feelings and they’re going to have days where they’re not going to be the best versions of themselves,” Ben said. “You’ve got to be supportive of that and make sure that we’re looking after one another.”