MEET THE TEAM

About Richard Burgess - Owner, Director and Course Tutor

Richard Burgess began his policing career as a Special Constable while working in the banking industry. After four years of voluntary service, he joined Essex Police as a regular officer and, following his initial probationary period in uniform, embarked upon what would become a distinguished career as a detective. He served for twenty-six years as a regular police officer, retiring as a Detective Sergeant, having qualified for promotion to Inspector.

Throughout his career Richard specialised in the investigation and disruption of serious and organised crime, developing extensive expertise in intelligence-led policing, covert operations and complex criminal investigations. His work encompassed both national and international intelligence operations, including the handling of covert human intelligence sources, the deployment of covert technical equipment and the supervision of covert intelligence cells during live kidnap and extortion investigations.

Richard's experience extended across a broad range of specialist disciplines, including Covert Authorities Bureau (CAB) supervision, Covert Listening Room supervision, Vulnerable and Intimidated Witness interviewing, anti-surveillance and counter-surveillance operations, Surveillance Log Keeping, Disclosure Officer responsibilities, Sexual Offender investigation and accreditation as a National Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP) Level II Detective Supervisor.

His service was recognised on a number of occasions. In 1995 he received a Chief Constable's Commendation after arresting an armed and highly agitated man who attacked him with knives, sustaining injuries during the incident.

In 2017 Richard was nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards and became the regional winner following his actions in Israel, where he saved the life of a young Jewish man. The awards ceremony, hosted by Prime Minister Theresa May, recognised acts of exceptional courage by police officers from across the United Kingdom.

Following retirement from policing, Richard has continued to build upon his experience through education, consultancy and historical interpretation. He is an accredited Battlefield Guide with the International Guild of Battlefield Guides (Badge No. 83) and is licensed to guide at the Sachsenhausen Memorial and Museum in Germany. Through his guiding he seeks not only to explain military history but also to encourage thoughtful reflection on leadership, human behaviour, remembrance and the consequences of conflict.

Richard is also a qualified domestic electrical installer and is currently training to become a qualified motorcycle instructor, reflecting his lifelong belief that learning is a continual process.

His experience has led to appearances on BBC Crimewatch, Sky documentaries, radio, news media and a variety of podcasts, where he has discussed criminal investigation, policing and historical subjects.

Today Richard is the founder of WorkSecure Crime Ltd and the author of The Richard Papers, a series of reflective essays exploring leadership, character, history and Christian faith. Drawing upon more than three decades of investigative and leadership experience, he now works as an educator, consultant, writer, public speaker and mentor, helping individuals and organisations develop critical thinking, sound judgement and ethical leadership.

Away from his professional work, Richard's greatest source of pride is his daughter, Dr Emily Burgess, who holds a PhD, is a university lecturer and published author. Her achievements remain, in Richard's own words, "my proudest accomplishment."

About Rob Hance - Course Tutor

Rob Hance retired from Essex Police after more than thirty years of dedicated service as a Police Constable, having first begun his policing journey as a Police Cadet. Throughout his career he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, community policing and the development of future generations of police officers.

Rob served across a wide range of operational policing roles, working closely with local communities to prevent crime, protect the public and safeguard children and vulnerable people. His experience included neighbourhood policing, local crime teams and targeted initiatives aimed at disrupting prolific offenders. He also participated in foot surveillance operations, gathering intelligence and supporting investigations into persistent criminal activity.

Alongside his operational duties, Rob has devoted much of his life to mentoring young people and supporting Christian fellowship within policing. He served as Chair of the Essex Branch of the Christian Police Association, encouraging and supporting officers and staff in their Christian faith while promoting integrity, compassion and service throughout the policing profession.

Rob was also the founder of the Harlow Police Cadet Unit and continues to lead and mentor its members today. Through this longstanding commitment, he has helped inspire countless young people to develop confidence, discipline, leadership skills and a sense of civic responsibility, with many former cadets going on to careers in the emergency services and public service.

Known for his approachable nature, integrity and commitment to serving others, Rob brings a lifetime of policing experience, community leadership and youth development to the WorkSecure Crime team. His passion for mentoring and helping others continues to define both his professional and voluntary work.

About Mick Finch - Surveillance Course Tutor

Mick Finch retired from policing after a distinguished career as a Police Constable, having dedicated his working life to law enforcement and public service. Throughout his career he served in a number of highly specialised operational roles, earning extensive experience in covert policing, tactical operations and public protection.

His professional background includes service as a surveillance operative, tactical firearms officer and police dog handler, working within some of the most demanding areas of frontline policing. Among his operational deployments was the response to the Afghan aircraft hijacking at Stansted Airport in 2000, where he formed part of the coordinated police operation that brought the incident to a successful conclusion.

Mick's career was built upon professionalism, teamwork and the ability to perform calmly and effectively under pressure. His experience in covert surveillance, armed policing and specialist operational tactics provides him with a unique understanding of risk management, decision-making and leadership in challenging environments.

Away from policing, Mick is an accomplished guitarist and lead vocalist with The Most, a popular Mod revival covers band. His passion for live music reflects the same energy, discipline and teamwork that characterised his policing career, allowing him to connect with audiences through performances across the region.

Today, Mick brings his wealth of operational experience, practical knowledge and approachable manner to the WorkSecure Crime team. Whether supporting educational programmes, consultancy or public engagement, he remains committed to sharing the lessons learned from a lifetime dedicated to protecting others.