Our team is the reason we consistently deliver exceptional results for our clients. We want to introduce you to our team members who are the driving force behind Leapwise.
Meet James Sweetland
James is a Consultant at Leapwise. With extensive experience consulting and researching on police effectiveness and technology, he’s passionate about helping public sector organisations pursue sustainable solutions to complex problems.
Professional Experience
James has recently joined Leapwise after over a year working as a freelance research consultant and journalist, supporting a range of diverse clients. He led major projects exploring use of facial recognition by Western law enforcement (with an academic publication and Police Foundation paper forthcoming) and the state of information management in policing. He also co-authored an insight-focused research paper on how Whitehall is seeking to embed AI to improve modern public services.
With a strong track record of problem-solving work – whether at think tanks like Reform and Demos or as an analyst at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners – James is passionate about identifying the causes of systems failure and the ways to improve performance. He is particularly knowledgeable around the criminal justice system, holding an MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Oxford University and having recently written for both The Times and The Telegraph on policing issues.
Ways of Working
James is motivated by understanding and addressing the strategic challenges and blockers that prevent public sector organisations from delivering effectively. He’s optimistic about how far good leadership, new technology, and effective change management can all combine to radically transform public services.
“Technology’s often seen as a silver bullet to address public service pressures. But making the most of AI and other technology means doubling down on the fundamentals of change first – things like process redesign, building leadership capabilities, or workforce development.“
– James Sweetland
Client Impact
At Leapwise, James works on complex transformation programmes and research projects. He brings to this his track record of research consulting, analysis, and problem-solving, combined with deep experience and networks within the policing world and beyond. As a former journalist, he’s also well-placed to develop convincing messages that articulate the case for organisational change.
When he isn’t working, James enjoys watching Saracens win titles, watching Crystal Palace not win titles, attending theatre, or travelling around Scandinavia.
Get in touch below if you would like to learn more about how James and our team can transform the productivity and performance of your organisation.
