Career in Policing
When Alan Jenkins graduated from Coventry University in 1977 (previously Lanchester Polytechnic), he could not have predicted where his career would lead. Over the next three decades, he would build a distinguished career in policing, contributing to major national operations, receiving several commendations and completing his service working on the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Looking back, Alan believes the foundations for that career were laid during his time as a student in Coventry.
“I often reflect on the many achievements I obtained as being linked to my degree at the ‘Lanch’.”
Alan studied International Relations BA (Hons), then known as Modern Studies. While the course provided academic knowledge about global politics and society, it also shaped the way he approached challenges and decision-making throughout his life.
“My degree embedded in me freedom of thought, understanding of other people's and cultures, confidence to express myself and confront difficult situations.”
How studying International Relations BA (Hons) at Coventry University builds critical thinking skills
Alan remembers his time as a student in Coventry as both intellectually stimulating and socially transformative. Like many students in the 1970s, he was part of a lively university environment where debate, activism and political discussion were common.
“I remember organising rent strikes, picketing Barclays Bank, attending London demos.”
Those experiences encouraged him to question ideas and consider issues from multiple perspectives, something that would later prove invaluable in his professional life.
At the time, the connection between student activism and policing may not have seemed obvious. Yet Alan believes the analytical thinking and open-mindedness he developed at university helped shape the way he approached public service.
“My modern studies degree had conditioned me to think objectively and see other perspectives.”
Careers with an International Relations degree: From university to policing
After graduating, Alan joined the police service, beginning a career that would span more than three decades. Over the years, he took on a variety of roles and responsibilities, often working in demanding and high-pressure situations.
During that time, he was involved in major incidents and significant investigations.
“I would go on to survive riots, stabbings, submit evidence to the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry and confirm ECHR standards were met in Public Order Policing Policy.”
His work required resilience, careful judgement and an ability to understand complex social dynamics. Alan believes the critical thinking skills he developed at university helped him navigate these challenges throughout his career.
During his career span, he received several awards and four official commendations, the final one recognising his work in counter-terrorism.
Alan was also runner-up in a National Lifetime Achievement Award, recognition of the impact of his long and varied career in policing.
Balancing career ambitions and family life in public service
Alan retired from the Police Service in 2013 with the rank of Inspector.
“Whilst not hitting the highest ranks, mainly as a result of being a single parent, I was very chuffed to leave the service as an Inspector.”
Balancing a demanding career with family life was not always straightforward, but Alan remains proud of the work he carried out and the contribution he made over more than 30 years of service.
Alongside the challenges, there were also some memorable moments.
“I received several awards and commendations and even got to kiss Theresa May!”
Working on the London 2012 Olympics: A career highlight
One of the defining experiences of Alan’s career came near its conclusion when he was involved in preparations for the London 2012 Olympic Games.
“I had the great pleasure to finish my 32-year career working on the 2012 Olympics (Sailing Events in Dorset) and being posted to the overall Games Gold Command at New Scotland Yard.”
The Olympics represented one of the largest security operations in the UK, requiring coordination across police forces and agencies nationwide. Being part of such a historic event was, for Alan, a fitting way to conclude his years of service.
Life after policing: Continuing to support community safety
Although he officially retired in 2013, Alan has remained connected to the policing community.
“I've continued my police links since retirement by working as a civilian in restorative justice and now volunteer supporting Dorset Police Rural Crime Team.”
Through this work, he continues to support initiatives that strengthen community safety and help address rural crime.
Why Coventry University was a catalyst for Alan’s career
For Alan, the connection between his university experience and his later achievements remains clear.
“Like all graduates, Coventry University was a catalyst for my outlook on life.”
His time at university encouraged him to think critically, engage with new perspectives and build confidence in expressing his views. Those qualities stayed with him throughout his career.
Alan often reflects that student life in Coventry felt far removed from the world of policing he would later enter. Yet the skills he developed during those years proved invaluable in the years that followed.
“My modern studies degree had conditioned me to think objectively and see other perspectives. Leading to a career I went on to love for many years!”
Staying connected as a Coventry University alumnus
Alan has remained connected to the university community long after graduating.
“I have been one of your alumni for many years and featured in an alumni magazine many years ago.”
He has also offered to mentor graduates interested in pursuing careers in policing, reflecting his commitment to supporting the next generation.
Looking back over four decades since leaving Coventry University, Alan believes the lessons he learned during his time at university helped shape both his career and his outlook on life.
Today, he remains proud of both his career in policing and his connection to the university where it began.
As he says:
“Keep up the good work and ‘long live the Lanch’.”
