Sal Naseem: A Trailblazer in Diversity, Inclusion, and Policing Reform
Sal Naseem has emerged as a pioneering figure in public service, championing diversity, inclusion, and systemic change in organizations across the UK. With a long and distinguished career in public service, he is best known for his work in policing reform and his unwavering commitment to driving inclusive cultures. Sal’s journey from his early career to becoming an internationally recognized speaker and author reflects not only his professional achievements but also his personal resilience in confronting systemic challenges.
Early Life and Education
Sal Naseem was born and raised in the United Kingdom, with a rich cultural heritage that significantly influenced his career trajectory. He pursued his education at the University of Glasgow, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in law. His academic journey laid the foundation for his later career, providing him with a deep understanding of governance, law, and the importance of ethical leadership. Sal’s educational background would later play a crucial role in his approach to leadership, decision-making, and promoting fairness and justice.
Groundbreaking Career at IOPC
Sal Naseem’s career is most notably marked by his groundbreaking work with the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). His tenure at the IOPC is distinguished not only by his leadership but also by his efforts to drive real change within the police service. In 2021, Sal made history by becoming the first South Asian and Muslim to hold the post of Regional Director for London at the IOPC.
During his time at the IOPC, Sal was tasked with overseeing some of the most high-profile cases in UK policing. He led investigations into incidents of police misconduct, working tirelessly to ensure accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. His role as a National Discrimination Lead further highlighted his commitment to addressing systemic issues, such as racism, misogyny, and discrimination within the police force.
Sal Naseem’s time at the IOPC was defined by his dedication to dismantling harmful police cultures and ensuring that officers upheld the values of fairness, justice, and integrity. He worked closely with the Metropolitan Police Service, tackling institutional issues and advocating for significant reforms aimed at promoting a more inclusive and accountable police force. Through his efforts, Sal helped initiate critical conversations around police reform, which have had a lasting impact on the national discourse on law enforcement.
Sal Naseem’s Resignation: A Turning Point
In 2023, Sal Naseem made the difficult decision to resign from his position as Regional Director for London at the IOPC. His resignation sent shockwaves through the organization and the wider public sector, raising questions about the challenges he faced during his tenure.
Sal was candid about the reasons behind his departure. He described the IOPC as a “broken” institution, plagued by toxic cultures, weak leadership, and a lack of support for those who sought to drive change. He criticized the organization for its failure to confront internal political challenges, professional jealousy, and resistance to transparency. These factors, he explained, made it difficult for him to continue pushing for meaningful change within the police service.
Sal’s resignation sparked a broader conversation about the effectiveness of public service organizations, particularly in the face of institutional resistance to reform. Despite leaving the IOPC, Sal’s advocacy for accountability and diversity remained undeterred. He continued to speak out about the need for systemic change within public institutions, calling for more leadership that truly embraces diversity, inclusion, and accountability.
A Visionary Author and Thought Leader
Beyond his role at the IOPC, Sal Naseem is a best-selling author and an influential thought leader. His book, True North: A Story of Racism, Resilience, and Resisting Systems of Denial, reflects his personal experiences with racism and his unwavering commitment to challenging systemic discrimination. In this memoir, Sal delves into his life journey, sharing the struggles he faced as a visible minority in the public sector and his quest for justice and equity.
Sal’s work as an author has earned him recognition as one of the top voices in the global conversation on anti-discrimination. His book offers a candid and powerful narrative that resonates with many who have faced similar struggles in their own lives. Sal’s writing is not just an exploration of his own experiences but a call to action for individuals and organizations to confront and resist systems of denial and oppression.
As a thought leader, Sal is frequently invited to speak at conferences, universities, and corporate events around the world. He is known for his ability to engage audiences on challenging topics such as leadership, inclusive cultures, and mental resilience. His powerful speeches inspire individuals to think critically about their roles in creating more equitable environments, whether in policing, workplaces, or communities. Sal’s voice has earned him a place among the most influential speakers on diversity and inclusion in the UK.
Continued Commitment to Social Justice
Despite stepping down from his role at the IOPC, Sal Naseem continues to lead efforts to create more inclusive cultures. He currently serves as the Assistant Director for Insight, Policy, and Strategy at Birmingham City Council, where he focuses on addressing the inequalities facing citizens across the city. His work at the council reflects his deep commitment to improving the lives of marginalized communities, tackling the social determinants of health, and promoting social justice on a local level.
Sal’s impact extends beyond local government. He is also a Senior Associate Fellow at the Police Foundation, an independent think tank focused on improving police services in the UK. In this role, Sal continues to advocate for culture change within the police force, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion at all levels of policing.
Additionally, Sal serves as an independent panel member at the National Fire Chiefs Council, where he continues to push for greater focus on culture and inclusion within emergency services. He is also a trustee at the Centre for Justice Innovation, an organization dedicated to improving the justice system and advancing social change.
Recognitions and Achievements
Sal Naseem’s work has been widely recognized across various sectors. In 2023, he was named one of the Top 50 Most Influential People Driving Change Through Inclusion in the UK by The Diversity & Power List. He was also recognized as one of the most inspirational leaders on inclusion by D&I Leaders in 2024. These accolades reflect the far-reaching impact of Sal’s work in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Sal’s influence is not limited to the UK. He has been recognized as one of the top 10 voices in the world on anti-discrimination by Favikon in 2024. His contributions to the global conversation on systemic inequality have positioned him as a leading figure in the fight for social justice and reform.
Conclusion
Sal Naseem’s career is a testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and the drive to create lasting change. From his pioneering role at the IOPC to his work as an author and thought leader, Sal has consistently demonstrated a commitment to confronting systemic challenges and advocating for a more inclusive and just society. His resignation from the IOPC marked a pivotal moment in his career, but it also deepened his resolve to continue challenging institutions to embrace diversity and reform. As he continues to lead efforts to create more inclusive cultures in policing, local government, and beyond, Sal Naseem’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of changemakers to stand up against injustice and work toward a more equitable world.
