Intelligence Researcher in Ipswich

Suffolk County Council is focused on making a meaningful difference to communities across Suffolk. As an Intelligence Researcher in the National Trading Standards Intelligence Team, you will collaborate and build a bright future.

Your role and responsibilities

• The role involves the interrogation of the Police National Database (PND), other law enforcement datasets and internal databases to build and enhance the national trading standards intelligence picture.
• You will conduct detailed research across multiple data sources, using insight and analysis to identify patterns, risks and emerging issues that may affect consumers at a local, regional and national level.
• This includes horizon scanning and accurately recording intelligence on the case management system.
• You will disseminate relevant intelligence to the wider Trading Standards community across England and Wales, ensuring information is shared appropriately, clearly and in line with recognised procedures.
• The role requires sound judgement when making decisions about how and when intelligence duties are carried out, balancing risk, priority and impact.
• Acting as a centre of excellence and reference point, you will provide advice and support to local authority trading standards services requiring specialist assistance.
• You will also work collaboratively to support the delivery of the National Trading Standards Intelligence Team’s objectives.
• You will assist the National Tasking Group (NTG) and other National Trading Standards teams in producing high-quality tactical and strategic intelligence products, contributing to a joined-up and effective intelligence network.

Requirements

• Excellent time-management and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• A good understanding of IT systems and the ability to use them confidently in a professional setting.
• Knowledge of intelligence policies and an understanding of how to handle sensitive and confidential data appropriately.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret information and identify meaningful insights.
• The ability to organise and manage your own workload with minimal supervision.
• Confidence in identifying intelligence gaps and making informed decisions or recommendations.
• The ability to respond appropriately to unanticipated situations, seeking guidance from senior officers where required.
• An understanding of the Intelligence Operating Model (IOM), the National Intelligence Model (NIM), or similar frameworks, including experience in producing associated intelligence products.
• A commitment to continuous learning and ongoing training, recognising the need to maintain and develop knowledge in relevant legislative and operational areas due to the specialised nature of the role.

If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team

The National Trading Standards (NTS) Intelligence Team is hosted by Suffolk County Council and plays a key role in developing intelligence-led working across the trading standards landscape. One of our core objectives is to support local authority trading standards services to use intelligence effectively to inform local priorities and activity.

We provide specialist technical expertise to help identify, record and analyse intelligence, enabling the identification of national trends and emerging threats. This intelligence informs tasking and prioritisation processes and supports targeted enforcement activity at national, regional and local levels, helping to tackle serious and organised criminal activity more effectively.

The team is based at Landmark House in Ipswich and supports hybrid working arrangements. We actively promote home working as part of our inclusive and flexible team culture.

Empowering Everyone

We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.

For more information

Please contact Aaron Hesketh for a casual conversation. You can reach them by calling 01473 263602 or emailing aaron.hesketh@suffolk.gov.uk.

How to apply

• Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile.
• Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
• Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement indicating how you meet each of the criteria in the ‘Person Profile’ section of the JPP.

You should use the Supporting Statement template. Please use Arial font size 11 and keep your statement to a maximum of two sides of A4. Please note: Without a supporting statement, your interest will not be progressed.

Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format. For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.

We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences, so we encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the process.

If you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply, you can request reasonable adjustments by contacting our Recruitment Team.

Closing date: 11:30pm, 3 June 2026.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.