Mercedes Cavaller

I am a highly experienced Senior Private Secretary and policy adviser with over 20 years in central government and law enforcement, including more than three years leading Private Offices. I specialise in supporting senior leaders by anticipating their needs, delivering clear, high-impact briefings, and ensuring effective decision-making in fast-paced, complex environments. I bring strong strategic awareness across policy, operational, and financial crime portfolios, combined with a reputation for discretion, accuracy, and delivering at pace.

I am also a confident leader, committed to building collaborative, high-performing teams.

I currently serve as Private Secretary to the Chief Financial Officer at the National Crime Agency, where I provide strategic advice, manage competing priorities, and ensure senior readiness for high-level engagements. Previously, I supported Directors across transformation, AI, and financial intelligence portfolios, leading Private Offices, coordinating complex briefings, and managing stakeholder relationships across government, including HM Treasury and the Home Office. My earlier roles include policy positions within the Cabinet Office and the Department of Health and Social Care, where I contributed to national COVID-19 policy and testing programmes.

I have also held senior roles in economic crime and financial intelligence, producing strategic reports and influencing cross-government policy.

I hold a Law degree from the University of Barcelona and a Master’s in European Studies from the University of Surrey. I have further specialised training in money laundering, EU policy, and strategic communication.