R2R103891 - 132005 - Fraud Investigation Officer in Southend-on-Sea

Your New Organisation

Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Your new role

Southend-on-Sea City Council is seeking an experienced Investigation Officer to work within the Counter Fraud & Investigation Team on a permanent contract. This role is offered on a hybrid basis which is a combination of working from home and attending the office. The role involves the response to allegations of and identification and investigation of fraud and corruption committed against the Council, working with other agencies as necessary. Investigations are conducted to the criminal standard and, where appropriate, prosecuted. Success in this role is achieved through engagement with key stakeholders, including partner agencies that have fallen victim to crime. As a member of the team you will have experience in investigating crime against the public sector and strategies for achieving best evidence. You will have a personal caseload of investigations and will also provide assistance to other officers in the conduct of their investigations. You will identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in systems and controls and develop proactive initiatives to reduce the risk of fraud against the Council. Provision of training to other Council Departments may be required.

What you'll need to succeed

You must possess a recognised qualification in criminal investigation or extensive experience in Local Authority criminal investigations. A good working knowledge of relevant legislation and experience in the investigation of fraud and corruption, particularly in the context of a Local Authority, is essential. You must also have experience of conducting investigations as the Officer in the Case and be able to work on your own initiative; planning tactics, interventions, disruption and supporting prosecutions through the Courts. You must be able to present evidence at court as a professional witness and have experience of acting as the Disclosure Officer in criminal prosecutions. Excellent communication, analysis and ICT skills are essential for this post, and you should also be able to work and make decisions independently and under pressure. The role will require an individual who is able to work outside of core hours.

What you'll get in return

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the “Why Work For Us?” tab. Southend-on-Sea City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.