Mr. Graham McNulty QPM stands as a figure defined by quiet resolve, disciplined leadership, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Rising through the ranks of British policing, his career has been shaped by a deep understanding of both frontline realities and the complex, evolving nature of economic crime. His journey reflects not only professional excellence, but a steadfast belief that integrity must remain the cornerstone of public service.
Throughout decades of service, McNulty earned recognition for his strategic clarity and operational strength, navigating some of the most challenging environments in modern policing. His approach has consistently combined precision with humanity, recognising that behind every investigation lies a broader responsibility to protect communities and uphold public trust. The award of the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) is a testament to this enduring dedication and distinguished contribution.
Transitioning into leadership at the Serious Fraud Office, McNulty brought with him a rare blend of experience—bridging traditional law enforcement with the intricate demands of tackling serious financial crime. As Chief Operating Officer, and now Interim Director, he has helped guide the organisation through a period of transformation, ensuring resilience, accountability, and forward-thinking strategy remain at its core.
What sets Graham McNulty apart is not simply his record of achievement, but his leadership philosophy. He embodies a calm authority, empowering those around him while maintaining a relentless focus on excellence. In an era where complexity defines the global financial landscape, his stewardship offers both stability and vision.
His story is one of purpose over prominence, where progress is measured not in headlines, but in the strengthening of institutions and the safeguarding of justice. Through dedication, humility, and enduring service, Graham McNulty continues to inspire a standard of leadership that is both principled and profoundly impactful.
The SFO is a specialist prosecuting authority tackling the top level of serious or complex fraud, bribery and corruption. We are part of the UK criminal justice system covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but not Scotland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands. We take on a small number of large economic crime cases. The Director may investigate any suspected offence which appears to her on reasonable grounds to involve serious or complex fraud, bribery or corruption.
In considering whether to authorise an investigation the Director will take into account the actual or intended harm that may be caused to:
and whether the complexity and nature of the suspected offence warrants the application of the SFO’s specialist skills, powers and capabilities to investigate and prosecute. We also pursue criminals for the financial benefit they have made from their crimes and assist overseas jurisdictions with their investigations into serious and complex fraud, bribery and corruption cases. Since 30 September 2017 we have had the power to investigate and prosecute the new offence of corporate failure to prevent the facilitation of overseas tax evasion.
We are unusual in the UK in that we both investigate and prosecute our cases. We were set up this way because these kinds of cases are complicated and lawyers and investigators need to work together from the beginning. The SFO was created and given its powers under the Criminal Justice Act 1987 and was established in 1988. Read more about our history and powers here. The SFO is superintended by the Attorney General in accordance with a protocol which sets out the relationship between the Attorney and the Law Officers’ Departments.
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