Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)
Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)

Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)

Reading Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead covert operations against online child exploitation and manage a specialist team.
  • Company: Join the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, tackling serious organised crime.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a good work/life balance, personal development opportunities, and a supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in protecting vulnerable children while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in serious organised crime investigations and a willingness to undergo necessary accreditation.
  • Other info: Must hold a full UK driving licence and pass security vetting.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

We welcome applications from substantive Detective Inspectors for the role within the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit as Detective Inspector for Undercover Online (UCOL) Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (CSAE) Team.

This exciting opportunity allows the successful candidate to serve as Covert Operations Manager for Under Cover operations (COM UC). The post holder will be responsible for maintaining and developing the UCOL CSAE team as part of the National Undercover Working Group Structure, providing leadership and guidance to all Covert Operations Unit staff, and setting direction on covert policing operations within the region to support the regional control strategy.

Due to the nature of the role, experience in investigating and managing serious organised crime investigations within a multi-agency setting, along with effective management of risk, threat, and harm, is essential. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of intelligence and performance management processes and techniques, with a proven ability to utilize covert tactics in organised crime operations.

The role also involves managing a team of specialist officers within a regional setting. The successful candidate must demonstrate strong leadership qualities, uphold high ethical standards, and maintain discipline while managing a regional team remotely.

To ensure operational effectiveness and legal compliance, all candidates must currently hold or be willing to undergo College of Policing COM-UC accreditation and maintain ongoing CPD.

This role is part of a national, regional, and local network, and may require travel mainly across the south east region and occasionally throughout the UK. A full UK driving licence is required.

There may be a requirement to perform on-call arrangements for immediate response across the South East region.

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, security vetting is paramount. The successful candidate must obtain and maintain vetting level SC and pass additional security checks. Applicants must have resided in the UK for the past five years, with exemptions possible for overseas or diplomatic service.

More information about security vetting can be found here.

How To Apply

To apply, click on the “Apply” button below and submit your application before the closing date of Sunday 20 July 2025 at 23:55hrs. Support from your Head of Command / Department is required.

  • Hampshire officers need to complete an AD277b form alongside their application, available on the HR Portal. Contact WFPlanning@hampshire.police.uk for queries.
  • Kent officers must inform Kent HR Resource Planning of their intention to apply. Applications require approval from the Chief Supt or equivalent, and must be submitted at least five working days before the deadline.
  • Officers from other forces are welcome to apply; consult your HR team regarding additional forms.

Please upload your latest PDR or recent CPD record, and the Training Record. Also, upload the Recommendation for Appointment Form in the ‘Line Managers Approval Form’.

The leadership of CTPSE and SEROCU is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity, promotes equity, and supports wellbeing. Our strategy aligns with five objectives: Inclusive Culture, Engaged & Involved, Wellbeing, Representation, and Inclusive by Design.

Benefits include a good work/life balance, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal development.

For questions, contact RecruitmentSE@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting the Job Reference number TBC. If you applied in the last six months, please refrain from reapplying.

We may close this vacancy early if we receive many applications. We recommend submitting your application promptly.

Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge when applying to enhance performance.

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Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU) employer: Thames Valley Police

As a leading force within the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values diversity and promotes a supportive work culture. Our commitment to employee wellbeing and personal development ensures that our Detective Inspectors have access to meaningful growth opportunities while making a significant impact in the fight against serious organised crime. Join us in a role that not only offers a good work/life balance but also allows you to lead a dedicated team in a challenging and rewarding environment.
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Contact Detail:

Thames Valley Police Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and responsibilities of the Detective Inspector role within the UCOL CSAE team. Understanding the nuances of undercover operations and child sexual abuse investigations will help you articulate your relevant experience during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former members of the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide you with insider knowledge about the team's dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage teams remotely. Given the nature of this role, showcasing your ability to lead a specialist team effectively, while maintaining high ethical standards, will set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on the latest developments in covert policing and child protection legislation. Demonstrating your commitment to ongoing professional development and your understanding of current issues in the field will reflect positively on your application.

We think you need these skills to ace Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)

Leadership Skills
Covert Operations Management
Investigative Skills
Risk Management
Threat Assessment
Harm Reduction Strategies
Intelligence Analysis
Performance Management
Team Management
Multi-Agency Collaboration
Ethical Decision-Making
Discipline Maintenance
Legal Compliance
Communication Skills
Driving Licence (Full UK)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Detective Inspector position. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, required experience, and qualifications to tailor your application effectively.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in managing serious organised crime investigations and any relevant leadership roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in covert operations and multi-agency collaboration.

Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, including your latest PDR, CPD record, and the Recommendation for Appointment Form. If you're a Hampshire officer, complete the AD277b form as well.

Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application process outlined in the job posting. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline and ensure that it is approved by your Head of Command or Department if required.

How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As a Detective Inspector, showcasing your leadership qualities is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in high-pressure situations, particularly in covert operations or serious organised crime investigations.

✨Understand Covert Operations

Familiarise yourself with the principles and practices of covert policing. Be ready to discuss specific tactics you've employed in past investigations and how they align with the objectives of the UCOL CSAE team.

✨Highlight Multi-Agency Collaboration

This role requires effective management within a multi-agency setting. Prepare to discuss your experience working collaboratively with other agencies, focusing on how you managed risks and coordinated efforts to achieve common goals.

✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions

Given the sensitive nature of the work, be prepared to discuss ethical considerations in undercover operations. Reflect on how you uphold high ethical standards and maintain discipline while managing a regional team remotely.

Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU)
Thames Valley Police
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