Kaloyan Cheshmedzhiev

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE CORE COMPETENCIES

A highly accomplished Strategic Security Leader and former Senior Police Inspector (Band 6 equivalent) with over 20 years of experience in high-stakes risk management and multi-agency operations.

Possesses a Master’s Degree and an Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management, offering a sophisticated understanding of the socio-political drivers of radicalization and extremism.

Proven expertise in chairing complex discussions, negotiating with international stakeholders (FRONTEX), and implementing the UK Prevent Strategy within educational and healthcare settings. A decisive leader recognized for maintaining personal authority and sound judgement when managing sensitive, high-risk safeguarding cases.

Strategic Leadership: Multi-agency chairing, policy development, and organizational change.

Risk Analysis: Expert-level application of FRONTEX and UK risk assessment methodologies.

Safeguarding & Prevent: Deep understanding of the "Notice, Check, Share" framework and the Channel process.

Diplomacy & Negotiation: Building consensus between conflicting parties (Police, Social Services, Health).

Legislative Compliance: Expert in Human Rights Act, GDPR, and UK Safeguarding legislation.

Reliable and proactive, bringing strong observational skills and calm demeanour. Skilled in conflict resolution and maintaining secure environments, with focus on customer service. Dedicated to contributing to safety and security of the Channel Chair role.

1. Proven leadership in safeguarding, community safety, or related field 2. Strong partnership skills and ability to build consensus 3. Exceptional communication and ability to engage with senior leaders 4. Deep understanding of safeguarding and the UK Prevent Strategy 5. Resilience, discretion, and sound judgement 6. Track record of delivering outcomes in multi-agency environments

During my career as a Senior Police Inspector (Team Leader), I was responsible for the strategic safety of one of Bulgaria’s busiest border sectors. This was not merely an operational role; it was a leadership position that required me to manage the safety of vulnerable asylum seekers while maintaining national security. In the UK, I have translated this into the educational sector at Leicester College. I lead by example, fostering an environment where safeguarding is proactive rather than reactive. My Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management provides the theoretical framework that supports my years of practical experience in managing high-stakes safety environments.

The role of a Channel Chair is to facilitate agreement between diverse partners who may have different priorities. As a Senior Inspector, I chaired multi-agency briefings involving Customs, Tax Services, and international FRONTEX officers. These agencies often had conflicting goals (e.g., speed of transit vs. depth of security). I successfully navigated these complexities by using a "risk-based" consensus model, ensuring all parties agreed on a unified path forward. I am a negotiator who understands how to find common ground without compromising the safety of the mission.

I have extensive experience engaging with senior officials and politicians. My work required me to provide clear, concise briefings to the Ministry of Interior and represent my sector during European Commission (Schengen) evaluations. I understand how to present complex risk data to senior leaders in a way that is authoritative, transparent, and defensible. I am comfortable being challenged by senior stakeholders and can maintain my professional composure while defending a well-reasoned decision.

I have a thorough understanding of the Prevent Strategy and its role within the wider CONTEST framework. At Leicester College, I worked directly within the "Notice, Check, Share" protocol. I understand that the Channel process is a voluntary, multi-agency safeguarding program designed to protect people from being drawn into terrorism. My Master’s Degree in History gives me a unique perspective on the ideologies that drive radicalization, allowing me to contribute more than just technical knowledge to a Channel panel—I bring a deep understanding of the "why" behind extremist narratives.

Throughout my police career, I handled sensitive information regarding organized crime and national security. I understand that discretion is non-negotiable in the Channel process to protect the individuals involved. My judgement is rooted in the FRONTEX Risk Analysis method, ensuring that every decision is evidence-based and stands up to scrutiny. I am resilient in the face of high-pressure situations, a trait I continue to demonstrate in my current role at University Hospitals of Leicester, where I manage immediate risks to public safety daily.

My career is a testament to delivering results through others. Whether it was coordinating a multi-agency response to an asylum influx at the border or implementing new safeguarding protocols in a UK college, I focus on outcomes. I am a strategic thinker who ensures that once a decision is made at the table, it is followed by effective, measurable action on the ground.