From Spy Chief To Author with David Bickford CB

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In this highly compelling episode, Chris was joined by David Bickford CB, a former senior intelligence official who served as Legal Director and Under-Secretary of State at both MI5 and MI6.

David played a key role in shaping the UK’s counter-terrorism and intelligence laws, creating the legal pathways that enabled operational intelligence to be used in court—revolutionising the intelligence community’s ability to act and protect.

Now a bestselling author, David brings decades of real-life espionage experience into his critically acclaimed Katya thriller series, co-written with his wife Cary. His fiction is celebrated for its authenticity, moral complexity, and international scope—taking readers from Arctic missions to Cold War Berlin.

In this conversation, David reflected on his extraordinary career, the moral challenges of intelligence work, leadership lessons and how he continues to explore global intrigue through his writing.

Here are some insights from the interview you won’t want to miss:

1. The Power of Independence and Perspective
   David emphasised the importance of maintaining both personal and professional independence, especially in high-pressure roles. He explained that being able to stand back from situations and view them objectively is crucial for sound decision-making and maintaining mental well-being, both in intelligence work and business leadership.
   
2. Absolute Integrity in Intelligence (and Business)
   One of the standout traits for intelligence officers, according to David, is integrity. Despite the nature of espionage requiring deception in the field, integrity remains paramount—reports must always be truthful because misinformation can have dire consequences. This lesson easily translates to business, where trustworthy leadership builds strong, effective teams.
   
3. Lifelong Learning through Diverse Experiences
   David shared how his adventurous childhood, shaped by international travel and independent problem-solving from a young age, helped him develop adaptability and an understanding of diverse cultures. This foundation enabled him to connect, collaborate, and lead effectively—a reminder of the value in seeking varied life experiences for personal and professional growth.
   
4. Transparency, Accountability, and the Value of Oversight
   He discussed the critical role of oversight and transparency within intelligence agencies, arguing that external oversight not only provides public confidence but also keeps the agencies themselves sharp and accountable. In business, this highlights the essential nature of checks, balances, and honest communication—both internally and with stakeholders.
   
5. Embracing Life as an Adventure—Taking Risks and Learning from Failure
   David’s overarching mantra is to treat life as an adventure, advising young people (and professionals of all ages) to pursue opportunities, take risks, and not fear failure. He stressed that trying—and sometimes failing—is far more fulfilling than living with regret for never trying. This “go for it” attitude underpins the courage needed for innovation and success in any field.

Life is an adventure. If there’s something you want to do but you’re not sure you can, do it anyway. You might crash and burn — but pick yourself up and try again. – David Bickford CB

Expect sharp insights, fascinating stories, and powerful reflections on leadership, loyalty, and the real world of espionage.

You can listen to this Business Elevation Show interview with David Bickford CB & Chris Cooper here. Alternatively on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Tunein, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio (latter US only).

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More about David Bickford CB::

David Bickford is a former senior intelligence official turned bestselling author. As Legal Director and Under-Secretary of State at both MI5 and MI6, he played a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s counter-terrorism and intelligence laws, creating the legal framework that allowed operational intelligence to be used in court. For his service, he was appointed Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB).

Bickford began his career as a solicitor before joining the Foreign Office and eventually moving into the world of national security. His work spanned high-level legal reform and some of the most sensitive operations in British intelligence.

After retiring, Bickford turned to fiction, drawing on decades of real-life experience. His critically praised Katya series follows a former FSB agent navigating international espionage, terrorism, and betrayal across Europe, the Arctic, and beyond. With his insider’s understanding of intelligence operations, Bickford’s novels are known for their authenticity, moral depth, and gripping pace.

He writes in close collaboration with his wife Cary, whom he married in 1965. Together, they develop plots during early morning walks and continue to bring complex, high-stakes spy stories to life. Bickford is currently working on additional titles in the Katya series and a standalone prequel set in Cold War Berlin.

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