Ryan Griffiths began his new role as General Secretary of the British Transport Police Federation this week.
A familiar face, particularly in the north-east, Ryan has been heavily involved in the Federation’s work in recent years. In addition to representing and advising his colleagues, Ryan’s position as Secretary of the C-Division Pennine East committee required him to serve on the Federation’s management board, overseeing strategic decisions and spending. He was also elected Deputy National Chair of the Federation in 2022.
Ryan’s policing career began in 1999 when he joined the Metropolitan Police, serving in the London Boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham, West Drayton and Hayes. He later transferred to Durham Constabulary before joining BTP in 2006.
Initially, Ryan worked on the Sunderland Metro before progressing to a plain clothes team that tackled the theft of passenger property in the northeast. He later worked at Darlington on uniform response teams and spent the last ten years on Proactive teams at both Middlesbrough and Darlington.
Family connection
For Ryan, joining BTP and becoming a Fed rep meant following in the footsteps of his father, Ian Griffiths, who was a Federation Inspectors' representative on the old Northeast Area Committee.
Ryan said: “I first became a Federation rep in eight years ago and have enjoyed every aspect of the role. Like others, I am very committed and take great satisfaction from assisting and supporting our members.
“At last year's conference, when the election results were announced, I felt immense pride and gratitude for the support I received throughout the process. Being elected as the next General Secretary is an honour, and I am passionate and enthusiastic about our Federation. I am committed to giving my all to succeed in this role for the benefit of our members.
Strategy, policy and accountability
The role of the General Secretary is to help set and deliver the strategic direction for the Federation, challenge policy and hold the Force accountable.
Ryan said: “I am keen to develop and embrace new ideas and technologies that can enhance office functions and improve communication with all members. I am committed to providing relevant and high-quality training to ensure our representatives are well-equipped to assist and support our members with confidence.
“A key aspect of my role is the review of force policy. I am dedicated to increasing the involvement of representatives in this process to ensure it is as realistic and constructive as possible. It is crucial to continue modernising, remaining relevant, and holding the Force accountable for its decisions.
Ryan was elected by his peers at the Federation’s annual conference in September. His five-year term of office began on 1 April 2025.