About Orava
James Harris - Owner and Principal Consultant
Hi, I’m James,
I’m an experienced academic and trainer, and a former UK Police Detective, with ten years’ experience investigating complex, sensitive and high‑risk matters in London. My work demanded sound judgment, defensible decision‑making and clear, effective communication. Alongside operational investigations, I also designed and delivered specialist investigative training, covering areas such as advanced interviewing, professional communication, investigation planning and case management.
Through my work in higher education, and my role as a school governor within a Trust, I’ve seen first‑hand how non‑academic misconduct, safeguarding and behavioural investigations have become increasingly complex. These cases are often high‑stakes, emotionally charged and legally significant, yet responsibility frequently sits with staff whose primary roles were never intended to include investigative work, or with teams who need stronger skills and confidence to carry it out well.
My focus is on providing practical, realistic training and guidance, grounded in real investigative experience, to help staff and organisations approach these matters with greater clarity, confidence and assurance.
I also support organisations with complex investigations by advising on appropriate lines of enquiry and conducting independent reviews for those subject to investigation, helping ensure processes are fair, proportionate and defensible
I am a fully qualified trainer (Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training) and assessor (Level 3 CAVA) as well as holding a Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (PGCLTHE). As a former Detective, I have a range of recgonised specialist investigative skills, including Advanced Interviewing, Strategic Interview Advice and Management and Case Reviewing.
Watch or Listen to James!
James has featured on several podcasts, including US‑based programmes, where he explores effective communication approaches and the professional mindset required for robust investigative practice.
