Strategic Lead Diversity Equality and Inclusion

The Strategic Lead for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion will drive PSNI's commitment to and actively promote equality of opportunity and good relations across the entire service. Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 aims to transform the practices of government and public authorities so that equality of opportunity and good relations are central to policy making and implementation. The post-holder will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the Act and driving a culture of inclusion, supporting PSNI to realise its ambition to be an employer of choice.

Main Activities:

• Developing and Implementing an Equality Scheme: Develop a data-driven Equality Scheme and Action Plan to promote fairness and inclusion. Lead the internal and external consultation of the Equality Scheme, including chairing associated governance groups. Implement an annual governance calendar, including Section 75 screenings, Equality Impact Assessments, an Audit of Inequalities, and an Equal Pay Audit.
• Strengthening Governance and Compliance: Analyse equality data to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and make data driven recommendations for action. Advocate and ensure that diversity, equality and inclusion considerations are reflected in all organisational transformation and operational change work streams. Provide expert advice to policy leads to embed equality screening and considerations within policy development and operational delivery.
• Enhancing Policies, Procedures, and Training: Ensure clear and robust diversity, equality and inclusion policies and procedures are in place. Oversee and deliver best practice training to help staff understand and implement their responsibilities. Act as a strategic enabler and subject matter expert in supporting senior managers with complex diversity, equality and inclusion issues.
• Building Strong Partnerships: Collaborate with Staff Associations and our internal Stronger Together forum to actively take into account the views of diverse voices. Develop and maintain strong relationships across a broad range of internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement innovative diversity, equality and inclusion solutions.
• Supporting Organisational Culture and Recognition: Contribute to the organisations Cultural Audit and oversee the implementation of the associated action plan. Act as an ambassador in embedding the organisational culture and innovative ways of working. Lead on benchmarking and diversity, equality and inclusion award submissions. Organise a programme of staff recognition events aligned with organisational values. Develop a communications plan that highlights positive impacts and recognises employees who drive the organisational diversity, equality and inclusion agenda. Provide leadership, support and guidance to the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion team; inspiring them to develop their capability and optimise performance. Engage in continuous learning and development to further develop professional knowledge and skills that reflect emerging best practice.

Essential Qualifications: A degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant area AND Chartered Member of Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (or be in a position to attain this level of membership within 24 months).

Essential Skills and Experience: Minimum of three years experience in a senior HR role with responsibility for diversity, equality and inclusion within a complex and challenging, large organisation (300+ employees). Professional credibility, through specialist knowledge of external regulations and legislation, in order to provide diversity, equality and inclusion advice to senior stakeholders. Proven experience in delivering innovative diversity initiatives and overseeing organisational change programmes. Experience in data analysis, audits and reporting at senior management/Board level on organisational progress and to ensure compliance with relevant legislation. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to systematically engage with internal and external stakeholders and manage relationships effectively.

Essential Other: IT literate specifically in the use of the Microsoft Office suite. The successful candidate must have access to a form of transport which will enable them to fulfil the responsibilities of the job in full.

Desirable Skills and Experience: Experience of designing and implementing organisational diversity, equality and inclusion strategies. Experience of designing training programmes to educate employees on diversity, equality and inclusion. Experience of delivering high profile events.

Selection Methodology: PSNI uses the Competency and Values Framework (CVF) which sets out nationally recognised behaviours and values to support all policing professionals. You will be assessed against the values and at the competencies level as indicated below. This will include both past and future focused questions.