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- Tasks: Lead and manage a team to ensure effective probation services.
- Company: Join the National Probation Service, dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a generous pension, and annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Professional qualification in Probation is essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role for 12 months based in Nottingham.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This position is based at NMS Unit C, Nottingham One, NG1 7HG.
Job Summary
This is a management role within the National Probation Service (NPS). The Senior Probation Officer supports the Head of Operational Function to provide management and a leading role within a Local Delivery Unit (LDU) or other operational unit.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- To provide effective management and leadership to the team.
- To be accountable for the quality delivery of good practice and team performance improvement within policy and national standards.
- To ensure that all team resources, including interventions, are deployed cost effectively and provide best value in terms of both budget control and realising the organisation's strategic aims.
- To ensure that staff can efficiently and effectively meet the requirements of the NPS' contract with HMPPS, Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRC) and local business plans as required.
- To access, interpret, analyse and apply performance data pro-actively in order to maximise LDU/team performance, evaluate practice and deliver organisational aims.
- To proactively manage staff development, issues of underperformance, attendance, health and safety, employee relations and diversity matters. Adopt a consistent, fair and objective standpoint when making decisions in relation to individual staff issues.
- To ensure that offender managers manage risk appropriately, and meet all public protection standards and targets.
- To contribute directly to public protection through multi-agency arrangements and individual casework review, discussion and feedback.
- To promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to service delivery.
- To manage financial resources for your area of responsibility as required by your Head of Operational Function and in line with HMPPS financial regulations and policies. To authorise expenditure within financial limits.
- In accordance with the business plan, to provide a leading role and direction in work with partners and key stakeholders, and represent the NPS as appropriate to the role.
- To facilitate effective communication between the LDU/Operational Unit management team and internal and external partners.
- To play an active part in the corporate management of the NPS as necessary, as a member of the LDU/Operational Unit Management Team.
- To undertake specific areas of responsibility as delegated by the Head of Operational Function.
- Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes.
- Carry out safeguarding children duties in accordance with the NPS statutory responsibilities and agency policies.
- To work within the aims and values of NPS and HMPPS.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The Job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary.
Person Specification
Professional qualification in Probation is required for this role and evidenced in the form of university qualification certificate.
Behaviours
We will assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Making Effective Decisions
- Leadership
- Communicating and Influencing
- Developing Self and Others
Access to Learning and Development
A working environment that supports a range of flexible working options to enhance your work life balance.
A working culture which encourages inclusion and diversity.
A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%.
Annual Leave, Public Holidays, Season Ticket Advance.
For more information about the recruitment process, benefits and allowances and answers to general queries, please click the below link which will direct you to our Candidate Information Page.
Selection Process Details
This vacancy is using Success Profiles, and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths and Experience.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
Security
Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.
Nationality Requirements
This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups:
- UK nationals
- Nationals of the Republic of Ireland
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
- Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020.
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles. The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.
Contact Point for Applicants
Name: SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team
Email: moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk
Telephone: 0345 241 5358
Further Information
Appointment to the Civil Service is governed by the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles.
Senior Probation Officer - Nottingham City (Fixed Term 12 Months) (Ref:6876) employer: HM Prison and Probation Service
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Probation Officer - Nottingham City (Fixed Term 12 Months) (Ref:6876)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's policies and procedures. Understanding their commitment to equality and inclusion will not only help you align with their values but also demonstrate your dedication to these principles during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former probation officers to gain insights into the role and the challenges they face. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach and show your understanding of the position during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage team performance. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, as this is a key aspect of the Senior Probation Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and issues within the probation service and criminal justice system. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and demonstrate your passion for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Probation Officer - Nottingham City (Fixed Term 12 Months) (Ref:6876)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Probation Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the specific duties outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, focus on your management and leadership experience, particularly in probation or similar fields. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to manage teams, improve performance, and handle sensitive information.
Show Commitment to Equality and Inclusion: The role requires a strong commitment to equality and inclusion. Make sure to include examples in your application that showcase your understanding and implementation of these principles in your previous roles.
Follow Application Instructions: Carefully read the application instructions provided in the job listing. Ensure that you submit all required documents, such as your professional qualification certificate, and adhere to any specified formats or guidelines.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Probation Officer, you'll be expected to lead and manage a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you motivate your team, and any strategies you've used to improve performance.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Policies
Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's policies and procedures. During the interview, highlight your commitment to equality and inclusion, and provide examples of how you've adhered to sensitive information handling in past roles.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your behaviours, such as decision-making and communication skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and illustrate your competencies effectively.
✨Discuss Financial Management Experience
Since managing financial resources is part of the role, be ready to talk about your experience with budget control and resource allocation. Share specific examples of how you've ensured cost-effective use of resources in previous positions.
