My background

Before joining the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), I worked as Lead Culture and Behaviour Consultant for a large building society. I led organisational change and transformation programmes, applying behavioural science principles to support large-scale cultural and operational improvements. My work had a particular focus on senior management transformation.

I joined the CPS as a Paralegal Assistant in the Crown Court while studying my legal qualifications. In this role, I supported counsel with case preparation, worked closely with victims and witnesses, and assisted during court proceedings.

Following this, I moved to the Crown Advocacy Unit where I now work as an Advocacy Clerking Manager, leading a team of Advocacy Clerking Assistants.

My typical day

As an Advocacy Clerking Manager, I oversee the allocation of advocacy resources across the Crown Court, ensuring that the right advocate is instructed for the right case. I balance operational demand with organisational priorities to support the delivery of a high-quality service.

I oversee complex clerking decisions, manage escalated issues, and provide assurance that advocacy decisions are consistent with CPS policies, governance requirements and strategic objectives. I ensure advocates receive clear and tailored instructions to support effective case preparation.

I lead the deployment of in-house Crown Advocates and advocates at the self-employed Bar, ensuring advocacy resources are used effectively and judicial commitments are met. This involves working closely with senior legal managers, advocates, court listing teams, chambers and criminal justice partners to manage competing priorities and support effective case progression.

Through the analysis of advocacy performance data, I identify trends, risks and opportunities for improvement. This helps to maximise advocacy capacity.

I also ensure that local advocacy arrangements are aligned with the CPS Advocacy Strategy, contributing to the long-term sustainability, capability, and effectiveness of the advocacy function.

Ultimately, my role combines strategic resource management, stakeholder engagement, operational governance and performance leadership to ensure the CPS delivers an effective, high-performing advocacy service that supports the administration of justice.