Lead Investigator

Overview

Based in Birmingham, you will be part of the Independent Office for Police Conduct's (IOPC) investigation team, which conducts comprehensive independent investigations across England and Wales. The role involves managing all phases of investigations, including setting terms of reference, evidence collection, witness interviews, report writing, and offering actionable recommendations to police forces and commissioners aimed at improving policing standards and preventing future errors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage investigations into allegations of criminal acts and police misconduct, adhering to IOPC guidelines.
• Conduct interviews, gather and analyze evidence, prepare case documentation, and recommend criminal or disciplinary measures.
• Visit and supervise incident scenes to ensure proper evidence preservation and recovery.
• Produce comprehensive investigation reports for presentation to decision makers within IOPC.
• Identify lessons and improvements for police forces to enhance public service and safety.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience in conducting investigative interviews, evidence collection, analysis, and presenting findings.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Exceptional analytical abilities with a capacity to make clear, well-documented and evidence-based decisions.
• Experience engaging with a diverse array of stakeholders and a commitment to equity and diversity in the workplace.
• Ability to deliver quality outcomes within tight deadlines.
• Competent in recognizing operational and organizational risks.
• Ability to adapt and work efficiently in dynamic environments.
• Possession of a valid UK driving license.

Essential Skills

• Self-motivated with the ability to adapt to change effectively.
• Skilled in drafting detailed investigation reports for submission to decision makers.
• Effective communication with complainants, bereaved families, and various stakeholders.
• Willingness to identify personal development needs and proactively address them.
• Strong prioritization and task management skills to meet demanding timelines.
• Proven capability to collaborate within diverse teams.
• Adaptability of communication style to suit different audiences.

Desirable Qualifications

• PiP2 qualification or comparable investigative experience is advantageous.

Benefits and Work Conditions

• Salary of £37,596 with an additional pension contribution of £10,891 towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme.
• 27.5 days paid annual leave, increasing to 32.5 days with length of service.
• Options to buy, sell, or carry over annual leave subject to review.
• Voluntary health cash plan via BHSF.
• Civil Service maternity leave package.
• Employee assistance programme and access to Civil Service Sports Council membership.
• Cycle to work and car leasing schemes.
• Staff networks supporting various protected characteristics.
• Learning and development tailored to your role.
• Flexible working options within an inclusive and diverse culture.

Additional Information

Investigators participate in an out-of-hours on-call rota with corresponding allowance as per IOPC policy. All candidates must undergo criminal record and baseline security checks. The role offers a diverse and equitable workplace culture committed to the development and success of its personnel.

The recruitment process includes optional information sessions and a mandatory briefing if shortlisted. Applicants are encouraged to apply only for their preferred location and specify additional preferences when applying.

Eligibility

This role is open to UK nationals, nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Commonwealth countries with UK work rights, EU nationals with settled/pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, individuals with relevant leave statuses, and Turkish nationals with relevant Civil Service work eligibility.

Important Notes on Application

Artificial intelligence tools may support your application, but all statements must be truthful and derived from your actual experience. Plagiarism or misrepresentation may result in disqualification or disciplinary action.

Contact

For inquiries, contact [email protected].