Andrew Finlay
Carrickfergus,County Antrim
Summary
Accomplished professional with expertise in digital forensics and cyber crime, adept at leading complex investigations and implementing cutting-edge technology solutions. Demonstrates exceptional skills in evidence presentation, writing detailed reports, and engaging stakeholders to build cross-functional relationships. Known for innovative problem-solving and leadership in high-pressure environments, with a commitment to advancing career goals in cybersecurity and digital investigation.
Overview
2
2
years of post-secondary education
27
27
years of professional experience
Work history
Detective Sergeant
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
2019.09 - 2025.03
- Detective Sergeant managing 15 officers - ensured high quality digital forensic data recovery and analysis against competing deadlines.
- Led team in identification of illegal digital material, providing valuable results, advice, and guidance to customers.
- Performed key tactical advice role in several high profile investigations.
- Consulted as subject matter expert on investigations in separate international jurisdictions.
- Mentored team members through challenge and personal reflection. Encouraged personal development through environment that encouraged new theories and creativity.
- Reviewed work processes and progress throughout examinations, assessing accuracy and briefing high level summaries to senior managers.
- Developed and delivered reports analysing trends in activity and technology exploitation, informing strategy and influencing budgetary decisions.
- Provided tactical advice to other investigative departments, simplifying technical jargon for others, to progress complex investigations.
- Fostered culture built around meeting investigative needs, using innovative thinking and solving problems without precedent.
- Oversaw multiple responsibilities beyond digital forensics, ensuring all tasks were handled efficiently and effectively.
- As subject matter expert, guided those at higher management level to understand complex concepts, adding value to strategic objectives and goals.
- Consulted in introduction of ISO 17025 standard for forensics labs, to ensure compliance with quality procedures.
- Undertook investigations of identified non conformances against ISO standards and operating procedures.
- Performed audits of working practices, identifying opportunities to improve performance and process.
- Developed training pathways for specialist officers. Identified funding streams from internal and external sources to provide officers with best training within constrained budget.
- Experienced in procurement, through procurement of hardware and software ecosystems.
Temporary Detective Inspector
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
Belfast
2021.05 - 2022.02
- Led team of approximately 35 police officers and police staff specialising in digital forensics and cyber crime investigation.
- Identified risks and opportunities across business area.
- Authorised approval of advanced digital forensic processes, balancing business need, cost and resource allocation.
- Advised on and guided development of Cyber Crime SLA across all departments in PSNI.
- Participated as key member of management panel assessing delivery against SLA targets, identifying failings and enhancing service delivery.
- Led compliance and development of policies align with legislation change.
- Lead team through implementation and improvement to areas of business / processes.
- Represented PSNI on several stakeholder groups.
Detective Sergeant
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
Belfast
2017.07 - 2019.09
- Lead PSNI investigator for complex international Cyber Crime investigation, involving national and international law enforcement agencies.
- Oversaw supervision and investigation of all cyber dependent and cyber related cases, ensuring thorough and effective responses.
- Implemented and supervised national Cyber Protect programme, adapting strategies to effectively address specific needs of Northern Ireland.
- Implementation and supervision of national Cyber Prevent programme and authoring of PSNI policy. Adapted to meet needs of Northern Ireland.
- Conducted cyber crime trend analysis, to develop proactive response to with internal and external stakeholders.
- Lead investigator on sensitive internal investigation concentrating on potential insider threat.
- Conducted market research and training needs analysis to identify and address staff training requirements in this highly specialised field.
Detective Constable
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
Belfast, Belfast
2005.05 - 2017.06
- Recovered and analysed data from all computer devices and networked environments for all crime types, including murder, fraud, money laundering, organised crime, and drugs offences.
- Led forensic examinations of Apple computers and servers, uncovering critical evidence for investigations.
- Led examination of satellite navigation devices in digital forensic cases.
- Delivered complex technical evidence at court using clear language to ensure jury and judiciary comprehension.
- Mentored junior examiners in digital forensic techniques, enhancing team skills and knowledge.
- Development of peer training to maintain currency with constantly evolving technologies.
- Developed and maintained knowledge base that served as repository for relevant legal and technical information.
- Developed and presented information on Cyber Crime Centre's role to internal and external stakeholders, increasing awareness and understanding.
Detective Constable
PSNI Criminal Investigation Department
Cookstown
2003.02 - 2005.05
- Investigated complex crime types, including homicide, serious assaults, and fraud, to ensure successful prosecution.
- Collected and analysed evidence to strengthen criminal cases and secure convictions.
- Interviewed suspects to extract critical information that contributed to case resolutions.
- Presentation of evidence
Constable
Police Service of Northern Ireland
Cookstown
1998.03 - 2003.02
- Responded to and managed emergency calls, ensuring swift resolution and support for affected individuals.
- De-escalated tense situations peacefully through diplomacy and conflict resolution training.
- Improved safety by maintaining high visibility patrols in community.
- Completed thorough police checks when needed leading to accurate results.
Education
MSc - Forensic Computing & Cybercrime Investigation
University College Dublin
Ireland 2021.09 - 2023.05
Skills
- Digital forensics
- Cyber crime knowledge
- Complex investigations
- Technology implementation
- Evidence presentation
- Writing documents and reports
- Stakeholder engagement
- Cross-functional relationship building
- Innovative problem solving
- Leadership in high-pressure environments
References
Available upon request.
Additional Roles and Responsibilities
- In addition to performing my core roles, I held additional responsibilities:
- Trained Public Order Supervisor/Commander. Leading crews and unit of 25 officers, during incidents of significant public disorder. Required to make split second decisions to protect life and property.
- Performed operational planning role with responsibility for maintaining training for 300 officers, along with deployment of up to eight PSUs, as required, in response to events.
- Maintaining associated equipment for PSU deployment, including radios, PPE, fire extinguishers and firearms.
- Training Coordinator for Serious Crime Branch, responsible for coordination of external training requirements for approximately 400 officers.
Affiliations
- Gardening
- Reading
- Dogs
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
MSc - Forensic Computing & Cybercrime Investigation
University College Dublin
2021.09 - 2023.05
Temporary Detective Inspector
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
2021.05 - 2022.02
Detective Sergeant
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
2019.09 - 2025.03
Detective Sergeant
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
2017.07 - 2019.09
Detective Constable
PSNI Cyber Crime Centre
2005.05 - 2017.06
Detective Constable
PSNI Criminal Investigation Department
2003.02 - 2005.05
Constable
Police Service of Northern Ireland
1998.03 - 2003.02