Lead Investigator in Birmingham

Overview

As a Lead Investigator, you will be part of a dynamic investigations team working locally and nationally on a wide range of investigations that are often in the public eye in the Investigation, Oversight and Casework directorate. The IOPC is developing its culture, perspectives and ethos to support the organisation’s core outcomes. This role offers opportunities to contribute to improving the police complaints system in England and Wales and to develop your mindset and approaches to produce robust outcomes that uphold our values, establish the facts behind a complaint and reach conclusions to draw recommendations.

Reports may be published and may include recommendations for actions to be taken by police forces or Police and Crime Commissioners to improve practice and prevent future issues. The role requires a cultural knowledge accountability approach to work, and post-investigation support for potential criminal, disciplinary and coronial proceedings. An on‑call function may be required out of hours with an appropriate allowance paid under IOPC policy.

Applicants should have relevant investigative experience from any sector (e.g., social work, probation services, local authority enforcement, regulatory services, fraud or criminal justice). The IOPC is a public service committed to equal service and to developing a diverse, inclusive workforce.

The role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974; a standard DBS check will be carried out during the pre-employment process.

Responsibilities

• Leading independent investigations into criminal and misconduct allegations in accordance with agreed IOPC guidelines.
• Undertaking investigative actions, including interviewing and taking statements, preparing case files and making recommendations for criminal and/or disciplinary action.
• Visiting incident scenes and supervising scene management to preserve and recover evidence where required.
• Writing investigation reports upon completion of the investigation for submission to the IOPC decision maker.
• Identifying potential learning for police forces to improve services and prevent harm to the public.
• Support for investigations staff in relation to criminal, disciplinary and coronial proceedings as appropriate.
• Participation in an on-call rota and allowance in line with IOPC policy.

Training, progression and on‑going requirements

• All successful applicants will start on 11th May 2026 and undergo induction and training.
• Professionalising Investigations Programme Level 1 (PIP1) to develop skills and knowledge as an investigator, including building a portfolio of evidence.
• Completion of Pearson Unit 4 accreditation relating to leading IOPC investigations; opportunity to undertake PIP2 later.
• Training is mandatory and delivered remotely and in person, with revalidation to maintain PIP requirements.
• Mandatory hybrid training may involve in-person sessions and e-learning; locations may require overnight stays (expenses payable).
• Further details of training and dates will be provided later in the process.

Desirable qualifications

• PiP2 qualification or equivalent investigative experience.

Essential experience and abilities

• Conducting investigative interviews, evidence gathering, analysis and presentation.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and report writing skills; ability to document clear, rational, evidence-based decisions.
• Experience engaging with diverse stakeholders and a commitment to equality and diversity.
• Delivering high-standard work within demanding timescales and identifying operational/organisational risk.
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment and work well in a team with diverse ideas.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Ability to prioritise and manage tasks effectively to deliver quality outcomes within timescales.
• Ability to communicate effectively with complainants, bereaved families and other stakeholders.

Essential skills and attributes

• Initiative and adaptability in changing environments.
• Clear written investigation reports and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to identifying and addressing development needs.
• Ability to recognise and address risks and to work to deadlines.
• Ability to work in a diverse team with inclusive communication.

We are committed to equality and diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from individuals who are typically under-represented or disadvantaged in society. We strive to provide inclusive employment and services.

• As a Silver Standard Stonewall employer, commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion through the Pride network.
• Signatory of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.
• Disability Confident employer, dedicated to removing barriers for disabled people.
• Staff networks and policies supporting inclusion and development, including Allyship Programme and Welsh Language Standards.
• 27.5 days annual leave (increasing with service to 32.5 days); options to carry over, buy or sell annual leave.
• Benefits include a Voluntary Health Cash Plan, Civil Service pension and maternity leave package, employee assistance programme, CSSC membership, cycle to work, Vivup discounts, car leasing, and flexible working options.

About the roles and application process

• Multiple Lead Investigator vacancies available within Core Investigations and Major Investigations (MI) departments.
• Core Investigations cover England and Wales with hundreds of independent investigations annually.
• Major Investigations handle large-scale, high-profile investigations including national significance and specialisms such as anti-corruption, intelligence, and survivor engagement.
• On-call rota includes daytime, overnight and weekend duties with possible overnight stays and travel to various locations.

Application process

• Four sift questions at application stage, including Experience and IOPC Values questions.
• Assessment against HEO Civil Service behaviours during the process.
• Stage 1: Interview (20 to 29 October) via MS Teams (approximately 30 minutes).
• Stage 2: Assessment Centre (10 November to 5 December) including formal interview, role play and written exercises.
• Stage 1 and 2 may assess Experience, Behaviours, Strengths, Technical skills and Values.