Detective Inspector (UCOL CSAE) (SEROCU) in Reading

We welcome applications from substantive Detective Inspectors for the role within the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit as Detective Inspector for Undercover Online (UCOL) Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (CSAE) Team.

This exciting opportunity allows the successful candidate to serve as Covert Operations Manager for Under Cover operations (COM UC). The post holder will be responsible for maintaining and developing the UCOL CSAE team as part of the National Undercover Working Group Structure, providing leadership and guidance to all Covert Operations Unit staff, and setting direction on covert policing operations within the region to support the regional control strategy.

Due to the nature of the role, experience in investigating and managing serious organised crime investigations within a multi-agency setting, along with effective management of risk, threat, and harm, is essential. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of intelligence and performance management processes and techniques, with a proven ability to utilize covert tactics in organised crime operations.

The role also involves managing a team of specialist officers within a regional setting. The successful candidate must demonstrate strong leadership qualities, uphold high ethical standards, and maintain discipline while managing a regional team remotely.

To ensure operational effectiveness and legal compliance, all candidates must currently hold or be willing to undergo College of Policing COM-UC accreditation and maintain ongoing CPD.

This role is part of a national, regional, and local network, and may require travel mainly across the south east region and occasionally throughout the UK. A full UK driving licence is required.

There may be a requirement to perform on-call arrangements for immediate response across the South East region.

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, security vetting is paramount. The successful candidate must obtain and maintain vetting level SC and pass additional security checks. Applicants must have resided in the UK for the past five years, with exemptions possible for overseas or diplomatic service.

More information about security vetting can be found here.

How To Apply

To apply, click on the “Apply” button below and submit your application before the closing date of Sunday 20 July 2025 at 23:55hrs. Support from your Head of Command / Department is required.

• Hampshire officers need to complete an AD277b form alongside their application, available on the HR Portal. Contact WFPlanning@hampshire.police.uk for queries.
• Kent officers must inform Kent HR Resource Planning of their intention to apply. Applications require approval from the Chief Supt or equivalent, and must be submitted at least five working days before the deadline.
• Officers from other forces are welcome to apply; consult your HR team regarding additional forms.

Please upload your latest PDR or recent CPD record, and the Training Record. Also, upload the Recommendation for Appointment Form in the ‘Line Managers Approval Form’.

The leadership of CTPSE and SEROCU is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity, promotes equity, and supports wellbeing. Our strategy aligns with five objectives: Inclusive Culture, Engaged & Involved, Wellbeing, Representation, and Inclusive by Design.

Benefits include a good work/life balance, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal development.

For questions, contact RecruitmentSE@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting the Job Reference number TBC. If you applied in the last six months, please refrain from reapplying.

We may close this vacancy early if we receive many applications. We recommend submitting your application promptly.

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