Detective Chief Inspector Simon Harding has won the Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) of the Year award, overcoming strong competition. The accolade, presented by the NPCC Homicide Working Group, honours excellence in homicide and major crime investigations across police forces in the UK.
Based at New Scotland Yard, Simon Harding received the award from Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy. The recognition highlights his outstanding professionalism and leadership in managing some of the nation’s most challenging homicide cases.
With nearly 30 years of experience in policing, Simon has worked in diverse roles including borough policing, cold case rape teams, and Counter-Terrorism Command. He has also served at three ranks within homicide teams, establishing himself as one of the Metropolitan Police Service’s most experienced Senior Investigating Officers.
Simon’s notable investigations include acting as the UK counter-terrorism SIO for the 2015 Tunisian museum attack that resulted in 22 deaths. He also provided support for the Sousse beach terror attack, where 30 British tourists lost their lives. Since joining the Met’s murder team in 2017, he has led or overseen over 80 murder investigations.
Among his significant achievements, Simon solved the 2017 double murders of Noel and Marie Brown using familial DNA techniques, sharing his findings at the 2019 national SIO conference. In 2019, during Operation Ridleypark, he led an investigation that found two decomposed women in a chest freezer, which resulted in a 38-year prison sentence despite the absence of a clear cause of death.
Currently, Simon is heading the high-profile investigation into the 2020 stranger murders of sisters Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman.
Reflecting on the award, Simon Harding said, “I am truly honoured and humbled. To be an SIO in the Met is an honour in itself, but to be a Homicide SIO is the pinnacle, and I cherish every minute. This recognition can only happen with a fantastic team behind you. I’m lucky to work with dedicated detectives and police staff who give everything for the families who have lost loved ones.”
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy praised Simon’s leadership, stating, “You show tireless determination, constantly learning and sharing knowledge. You support your team and never lose sight of the impact murder investigations have on staff. You embody public service and compassion, especially towards bereaved families. Congratulations on a well-deserved award.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
