Civil Claims Manager in Lewes

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.