Michael Natavio, Deputy National Chair of BTP Federation and B-Division TfL Area Secretary, recently had the opportunity to sit on mock Inspector boards. He found the experience valuable and has written a guest blog about it. The Federation will be involved in more of these mock boards, and Michael is keen that colleagues know the support available to them as they prepare to take part.
Preparing for promotion is one of the most significant steps an officer can take in their policing career. As many colleagues will recognise, the process of exams and promotions within the police service presents many challenges for candidates, and without the right support, navigating the process can feel daunting.
In my role within the Federation, I have seen how vital it is that officers feel guided, encouraged, and equipped throughout this journey.
One of the most positive developments in recent years has been the partnership between the Federation and the senior leadership team. By working closely together, we have been able to provide a consistent approach to promotion support. This ensures officers receive practical guidance, honest feedback, and a clear understanding of what is expected at each stage of the process.
Our shared aim is to help every candidate reach their full potential.
The Experience that Shapes my Approach
My own policing journey has played a significant role in how I support officers today. Before joining the Federation, I was serving as a Public Order Public Safety Advisor, working closely with management teams during some of the most complex and high‑pressure public order deployments. That role demanded clarity, composure, and the ability to translate operational realities into sound strategic advice and these are the skills that now directly inform how I assist candidates preparing for promotion.
I also had the privilege of stepping up as an acting Sergeant during the London 2012 Olympics. It was an extraordinary period that required adaptability, leadership, and teamwork on a scale few events can match. While I thrived in the operational aspects of the role, I realised that the administrative side of policing didn’t match my strengths or motivations. Rather than forcing myself down a path that didn’t feel right, I chose to move laterally within policing, a decision that led me to roles where I could contribute more effectively and feel more fulfilled.
One thing I want all officers to know is something that one of my first Chief Inspectors shared with me: career progression is not always linear. Lateral movement, specialisms, and advisory roles are just as valuable to the service as traditional promotion routes. What matters is finding the path that allows you to thrive.
Preparing Sergeants for the Next Step
A key part of our support is the delivery of mock Inspector boards. These sessions offer Sergeants a realistic and constructive environment in which to practice their responses and gain insight into the standards required for the Inspector role. Recently, I sat in on the process and gave my insight, as well as listening to prospective Inspectors go through the process to practice how they will identify and deliver BTP objectives.
My background in public order, advisory work, and temporary leadership has strengthened the perspective I bring to these boards. My experience in high‑pressure environments and in supporting senior decision‑makers means I understand the leadership behaviours, judgement, and communication skills expected at various management levels. I feel this means I can question candidates thoughtfully and provide feedback that is grounded in real operational and organisational experience.
On a recent panel, I sat alongside Inspector Benjamin Payne, Chief Inspector Daniel Rushall, and Business Improvement Analyst Steven McKechnie. Between us we have operational, leadership, and organisational expertise, plus, all of us, having had to sit through panels and boards previously, know the stresses that the officers face.
The purpose of these boards is not to test for the sake of testing, but to build confidence, identify strengths, and provide constructive feedback that officers can take forward into their formal assessments.
Guidance Beyond the Assessment Room
Promotion is not a single event; it’s a developmental journey. The Federation is able to offer tailored support throughout. That might look like clarifying the process, chatting through ways to prepare, or simply providing reassurance during what can be a demanding period.
The involvement of both senior leaders and Federation representatives demonstrates our collective commitment to helping officers progress in a fair, transparent, and supportive environment.
Here to Support Every Member
I want members to know that the Federation is here to support them. Whether you are preparing for your first board, exploring lateral development, or looking at taking your next steps after several years in a role, we are committed to providing the guidance and encouragement you need.
Working with leaders in BTP, participating in mock boards, and promoting fairness are all about helping you succeed.
If you’re thinking about career development, I hope you can do so with confidence, knowing that you have a Federation team behind you that believes in your potential and is invested in your development.
Michael Natavio - Deputy National Chair and B-Division TfL Area Secretary