Gerard was the Commander of the British police force.
In 2027, when Chief Inspector Nathan Spring wished to launch a proper investigation into a drowning case, due his disagreement with the conclusion of the machines, he was called into a meeting with Gerard, who point-blank refused to fund this with no solid evidence. Gerard was also keen that Spring take a promotion as Commander of the International Space Police Force, something which Spring was adamant was never going to happen.
Gerard ordered Spring to attend the Charles de Gaulle space station to investigate the case of the strange spacesuit malfunctions. Spring worked both cases simultaneously and found that both were murders. After returning to another meeting with Gerard, he was informed that Gerard had attributed the solving of the drowning case to his colleague, Brian Lincoln, as well as promoting him to Spring's job of Chief Inspector. This gave Spring no choice but to accept the promotion of Commander of the ISPF. He made it perfectly clear that the British police force wanted a British person out in space, in such a position of power. (TV: An Instinct for Murder)
Personality
Gerard was a headstrong and fierce man who took no fools, and always got what he wanted through any means, be it manipulation or otherwise. It was Gerard who sent off Spring's applications for Commander of the International Space Police Force behind his back, as well as making Spring attend and solve the spacesuit malfunctions, that got Spring the job. Spring hated the man, calling him a "bastard" when alone.
Skills and abilities
Gerard was able to command his officers easily with little bargaining or persuasion. Most of his officers took it as read that there would be heavy consequences should they disobey or disregard an order. He used underhand techniques and manipulation to gain what he wanted, no matter the cost.