At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead specialist operations in a dynamic policing environment, tackling serious crime and counter-terrorism.
- Company: Join the City of London Police, a key player in maintaining safety in a global business hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with opportunities for professional development and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a safe city while leading innovative policing strategies.
- Qualifications: Extensive detective experience, strong leadership skills, and commitment to equity and inclusion.
- Other info: Engage in a supportive team culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
The City of London continues to be one of the safest City areas in the country. It has the lowest rates of serious violent crime in London and very low volumes of the most serious offences such as homicide, rape and serious sexual assault, as well as knife-and firearm-related violence. This is achieved by the City of London Police who keep the Square Mile safe, and feeling safe. This is vital not only for those who live, work, and visit the City but also for maintaining its status as a leading global business district and a thriving economic hub.
This is an exciting time to be working in the City of London Police. You will be part of an experienced and dedicated Senior Leadership Team leading on the delivery of the policing plan, ensuring we have a culture that embodies Professionalism, Integrity and Compassion. An opportunity has arisen for a substantive Detective Chief Superintendent or a Detective Superintendent on promotion to lead our Specialist Operations Directorate, which has a high proportion of specialist units with a mixture of officers and staff. The Directorate includes Counter Terrorism, Forensic Services, Cyber, CID and the Force’s Research and Intelligence services which supports work locally as well as the National Lead Force.
To be successful in this role you should be able to demonstrate extensive experience as a detective as well as strong leadership skills, motivating staff to maximise their potential. You should be able to work at pace where necessary and with a level of emotional intelligence that takes whole teams with you. We also require the successful postholder to be PIP 3 and hold PIP 4 or be willing to gain this accreditation with experience of managing serious crime and covert resources. You will have a strong commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity and a track record of developing others.
If you wish to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Det Ch Supt Mandy Horsburgh - Amanda.Horsburgh@cityoflondon.police.uk
Deputy Commissioner Paul Betts will be hosting a webinar to provide further insight into CoLP and the role on Wednesday 11th March 2026, 1300 – 1400. If you would like to attend, please contact HRServices@cityoflondon.police.uk.
The Application Process
- You will be assessed against the Competency Values Framework.
- A copy of your CV detailing skills and experience.
- Examples outlining your suitability against the following 3 CVF areas: We Take Ownership, We Collaborate, and We Deliver, Support and Inspire.
- A supporting statement of a maximum of 1000 words and no more than 2 pages outlining how your skills and experience meet the criteria for the role.
- 360 feedback from your current team.
- Shortlist Panel – the shortlisting panel will assess your ability to demonstrate competence against key criteria of the role.
- Selection Panel – candidates who are shortlisted to attend interview will be assessed through the following:
- Staff Engagement Exercise
- Presentation
- Strategic Assessment: a competency-based interview against the Competency Values Framework.
Key Dates
- Application closing date: Thursday 26th March 2026 at 1700
- Webinar hosted by Deputy Commissioner Paul Betts: Wednesday 11th March 2026, 1300 – 1400
- Staff Engagement Exercise: Thursday 23rd April 2026 via Microsoft Teams
- Interviews: Tuesday 28th and Wednesday 29th April 2026
For further information on the Competency Values Framework (CVF) please visit the College of Policing at: College of Policing. For further information on the Chief Superintendent Professional Profile, please visit Chief Superintendent Professional Profile. For more information on the City of London Police, please visit City of London Police Careers.
The City of London Police is committed to equality of opportunities and continuously strive for inclusivity within our Force. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, particularly from those who are disabled, have long-term health conditions, and/or are neurodivergent, those with Black, Asian and other Minority Ethnic backgrounds, female candidates, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Detective Chief Superintendent - Specialist Operations in City of London employer: City of London Police
Contact Detail:
City of London Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Detective Chief Superintendent - Specialist Operations in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the City of London Police and their values. Research their recent initiatives and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former officers on LinkedIn or attend webinars, like the one hosted by Deputy Commissioner Paul Betts. Building connections can give you insider info and might just land you a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the competency-based interview by practising your responses to the CVF areas: Ownership, Collaboration, and Delivery. Use real-life examples from your experience to demonstrate how you've embodied these values in your work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the City of London Police and ready to contribute to keeping the Square Mile safe.
We think you need these skills to ace Detective Chief Superintendent - Specialist Operations in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Experience: When you're putting together your CV, make sure to highlight your detective experience and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you've taken ownership and delivered results in your previous positions.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how your skills align with the role and the Competency Values Framework. Keep it concise but impactful – remember, we’re looking for clarity and relevance.
Get Feedback from Your Team: Don’t forget to include 360 feedback from your current team. This is crucial for us to understand how you collaborate and inspire others. If you haven’t done one recently, consider asking for feedback now!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of London Police
✨Know Your Competency Values Framework
Familiarise yourself with the Competency Values Framework (CVF) as it’s crucial for this role. Be ready to provide specific examples that demonstrate how you embody the values of ownership, collaboration, and delivering support and inspiration.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Detective Chief Superintendent, strong leadership is key. Prepare to discuss your experience in motivating teams and managing serious crime operations. Think of concrete examples where you've successfully led a team through challenges.
✨Prepare for the Staff Engagement Exercise
This exercise is a chance to show how you engage with staff. Think about your approach to fostering an inclusive environment and how you’ve previously supported team members in their development. Practice articulating these experiences clearly.
✨Be Ready for Strategic Assessment Questions
Expect competency-based questions during the interview. Reflect on past situations where you had to make strategic decisions, especially in high-pressure scenarios. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.