Head of Oversight and Governance

The Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) is the organisation through which the Mayor of London exercises his role as the Police and Crime Commissioner for London. It is led by the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime. MOPAC undertakes a broad range of statutory duties and works closely with the Mayor of London, Metropolitan Police Service, government and wider statutory partners to deliver the priorities that will create safer London communities.

MOPAC plays a vital role in holding the Metropolitan Police Service to account on behalf of Londoners. We are seeking a highly capable and strategic Head of Oversight Governance to lead the development and delivery of governance, assurance, and oversight processes at the highest level. MOPAC's core statutory duty is to oversee the efficiency and effectiveness of the Metropolitan Police Service. This post sits at the heart of this function, setting the strategic approach to oversight and advising the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on performance challenges, risks and opportunities.

In the wake of the Casey Review, MOPAC set up the London Policing Board to ensure transparency of oversight of the MPS. The London Policing Board sits at the apex of MOPAC's approach to oversight. This is a pivotal leadership role with direct responsibility for setting and managing the forward plan of the London Policing Board, and for overseeing the effectiveness of governance frameworks that scrutinise the Met’s performance, integrity, and progress against reform priorities.

The post holder will lead on ensuring that the London Policing Board is able to effectively oversee the MPS. Managing relationships with Board members, setting forward plans for the board and ensuring that MOPAC has a co-ordinated approach to oversee the MPS. This includes identifying priorities, horizon scanning for risks and issues and managing the London Policing Board.

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of oversight governance arrangements for the London Policing Board and wider MOPAC assurance functions.
• Drive delivery of Police and Crime Plan commitments through effective oversight of the MPS and collaboration with partners, identifying and resolving challenges to achieve strategic outcomes for the benefit of Londoners.
• Work with Evidence and Insight to oversee MPS performance.
• Work with MPS colleagues to understand and influence their responses to performance challenges.
• Design and manage the Board’s forward plan, ensuring alignment with mayoral priorities, statutory responsibilities, and public interest.
• Provide expert advice and support to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, senior officials, and board members on governance best practice, accountability processes, and risk.
• Oversee the preparation of high-quality briefing, assurance, and decision-making materials to inform robust scrutiny of the Metropolitan Police Service.
• Develop effective cross-organisational relationships with senior stakeholders, including the Metropolitan Police, City Hall, Home Office, and other partners.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team, embedding a culture of public service, transparency, and continuous improvement.

• Significant experience in a senior governance, policy, or oversight role within a public sector, policing, or regulatory environment.
• Proven track record of working at a senior level with boards, senior leaders, and elected officials.
• Strong understanding of public accountability, governance frameworks, and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to operate credibly at the highest levels.
• Experience managing sensitive, high-profile issues in a complex and politically informed setting.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of policing oversight in one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse cities. You’ll be part of a mission-driven organisation committed to public safety, transparency, and reform. At MOPAC, we offer flexible working, a supportive culture, and the chance to make a real difference to the lives of Londoners.

Application closing date: Sunday, 8 June 2025 - 23:59. Interviews will be held on 19 June 2025 in person at our office in London (SE1 0LL).