At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead civil claims management and oversee sensitive legal processes for Sussex Police.
- Company: Join the Professional Standards Department at Sussex Police, making a real impact.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, career progression, and health support.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead a motivated team and influence significant legal matters.
- Why this job: Shape policing practices and contribute to public confidence in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Degree in law or equivalent experience; strong knowledge of civil law required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
An incredible opportunity has arisen for the right candidate to join the Professional Standards Department Senior Management Team as our Civil Claims Manager, a unique leadership role responsible for delivering a professional, transparent, accountable and trusted civil claims function within Sussex police. Every year, the force receives upwards of 500 civil claims ranging from lost property to unlawful arrest, assault and HRA breaches. We also hold ‘interested parties’ status in complex, often Article 2, inquests and deal with a number of Judicial Reviews.
As Civil Claims Manager, you will have responsibility for overseeing all related processes from start to finish – from early notification right through to attending court and advocating for the force at trial or inquest. This is a varied, interesting and challenging, but rewarding role, often dealing with high profile and sensitive matters that attract press interest. No two days are the same so you will need to bring a flexible and pragmatic approach to the novel challenges that you will face.
You will need excellent problem solving skills with the ability to analyse, interpret and clearly articulate areas of risk/vulnerability in relation to liability to be able to provide strategic advice at senior/chief officer level. You will need to be an exceptionally strong communicator and be able to effectively negotiate and influence others to achieve outcomes.
As a single post holder in the Force you must also be able to operate independently in relation to day to day activities and decision making. The role has autonomy in deciding matters of significant public interest and reputational risk, as well as financial accountability. You will make decisions on behalf of the Chief Constable and Sussex police in all civil claims, complex and/or Article 2 Inquests and Judicial Reviews, with transparency and accountability ensuring public confidence is maintained.
You will use your knowledge and experience to objectively assess and decide force liability, determine quantum and assess risk (reputational, financial and operational) and seek to mitigate those risks. You will be able to reflect and translate outcomes into organisational learning and/or policy change recommendations to mitigate against future similar claims.
You will lead a team of experienced claims investigators and the force Inquest officer by providing strong, visible leadership – maintaining a high-performing, motivated team. You will coach, mentor, and develop your team, empowering them to take ownership, solve problems effectively, and continuously improve service delivery. You will advise and guide them with investigative strategies, litigation risk and tactics.
Ideally you will be educated to degree level, preferably in a legal discipline, and/or hold a professional legal qualification, although significant equivalent practical experience will be considered. You will also have experience and working knowledge of civil law (particularly defendant) and operating within the Civil Procedure Rules, as well as detailed knowledge of the HRA, PACE, GDPR and DPA. Experience or a working knowledge of Coronial proceedings will also help you. You will also be comfortable with attending court.
This is an opportunity to lead one of the most strategically important and professionally influential functions within the Professional Standards Department. As Civil Claims Manager, you will operate at the centre of complex, high-profile and often nationally significant matters, providing expert leadership and legal oversight on civil litigation, police liability, inquests and organisational risk on behalf of the Chief Constable.
The role combines legal expertise, strategic judgement and operational influence. You will oversee the management of sensitive and high-value claims, guide investigations, shape the force response to contentious and Article 2 inquests, and provide trusted advice to Chief Officers, operational leaders and external partners. From major operational incidents and judicial reviews, to complex negotiations and reputation-critical decision making, this is a role where your judgement and leadership will have real impact.
You will lead and develop a specialist team, manage significant budgets and external legal partnerships, and act as the force’s expert point of contact for civil litigation and legal services. The role also plays a vital part in organisational learning — identifying opportunities to improve policy, reduce risk, strengthen legitimacy and protect public trust and confidence.
We are looking for someone who thrives in complex environments, is confident making difficult decisions, and is motivated by meaningful work that genuinely shapes policing practice and organisational standards. This is a rare opportunity to work at senior level across operational policing, legal services and strategic risk management in a role that is both professionally challenging and hugely rewarding.
Policing is an exciting 24/7 business and we all have commitments outside work. We’re invested in supporting people to balance their life with work and we encourage flexible working. We are open to conversations about job shares and part time working. We encourage agile working, giving you the opportunity to manage your own diary and work wherever you give the best service to the public. This may include flexi-time and home working.
We take pride in looking after our people and offer a variety of benefits; career progression, contributory pension scheme (LGPS), generous annual leave allowance, discounts for everyday spend, on-site gyms and a range of sports clubs, generous and supportive parental leave, financial and mental wellbeing guidance and support, discounted contributory healthcare scheme.
As the Civil Claims Manager you will have a high degree of flexibility on where you work, and how you lead your team. You will be a trusted member of the PSD Senior Management Team and will have the opportunity to shape policing beyond your own team.
If you would like to discuss the role or requirements, please make contact with either. In your application, please include no more than 1000 words on how your skills and experience enable you to fulfil the role, and your vision of how this area of policing can contribute to public confidence, best practice, and best use of public funds.
Civil Claims Leader | Police Litigation & Inquests in Lewes employer: Sussex Police
Join Sussex Police as a Civil Claims Manager and be part of a dynamic team that values transparency, accountability, and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous benefits including a contributory pension scheme and supportive parental leave, you will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing team while making impactful decisions in a role that shapes policing practices. Our commitment to employee wellbeing and career progression makes Sussex Police an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Civil Claims Leader | Police Litigation & Inquests in Lewes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and policing sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent cases. Understand their values and how they handle civil claims. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in making a difference in their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Civil Claims Manager, you’ll need to influence others effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build your confidence and refine your approach to difficult conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get your application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Civil Claims Leader | Police Litigation & Inquests in Lewes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives that make you a great fit for the Civil Claims Manager role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with the specific requirements of the job. Use keywords from the job description to show us you understand what we’re looking for!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Civil Claims Manager, strong leadership is key. Share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, and how you can bring that experience to our Professional Standards Department.
Keep It Concise and Clear:With a word limit of 1000 words, it’s important to be clear and concise. Structure your application well, using headings if necessary, and make sure every sentence adds value to your case. We want to see your vision and how you can contribute!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sussex Police
✨Know Your Civil Claims Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on civil law, especially in relation to police liability and the Civil Procedure Rules. Familiarise yourself with recent high-profile cases and how they were handled, as this will show your understanding of the complexities involved in the role.
✨Demonstrate Strong Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your leadership experience, particularly in managing teams through challenging situations. Think about times when you've had to coach or mentor others, and be ready to discuss how you empower your team to take ownership of their work.
✨Articulate Your Strategic Vision
Be ready to share your vision for the Civil Claims function within the police. Think about how you would approach risk management and organisational learning, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to public confidence and best practices in policing.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
As a Civil Claims Manager, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Practice articulating complex legal concepts in simple terms, and prepare for potential questions about negotiation tactics and influencing outcomes in sensitive situations.
