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- Tasks: Lead undercover operations to combat Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the SEROCU, focused on making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with great work/life balance and development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a challenging and rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Must have completed the Cover Officer (A3) course and possess strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We welcome applications from Detective Sergeants seeking a new and rewarding challenge. In this role, you will lead officers primarily within the Undercover Online (UCOL) CSAE team, working closely with the UCOL CSAE Operations Team, police forces, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), and other partner agencies to identify, disrupt, and support investigations into Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (CSAE).
Key Responsibilities
- Lead offenders within the UCOL CSAE team and collaborate with partner agencies.
- Contribute best practice and innovative approaches to help drive work forward within this highly specialist and challenging area.
- Prioritise effectively and manage risk in line with the THOR principles.
- Oversee the viewing and management of material relating to CSAE.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Successful completion of the Cover Officer (A3) course is essential.
- British National with residence in the UK for the past five years; exemptions may apply for overseas or diplomatic service.
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel for business primarily across the South East region and occasionally elsewhere in the UK.
- Capability to obtain and maintain vetting level SC.
- Excellent communication, decision‑making, team‑working, and continuous professional development (CPD) skills.
Benefits
Our people say that benefits include a good work/life balance, a supportive and welcoming place to work and great opportunities to further develop your own capabilities.
Application Process
Please submit your application before the closing date of 10 May 2026 at 23:55hrs. If you are a Hampshire officer, complete an AD277b alongside your application; if you are a Kent officer, inform Kent HR Resource Planning and ensure Chief Officer approval before submitting. Officers from other forces may consult their HR team regarding completion of additional forms. Upload your latest PDR (or if no PDR, a recent copy of your CPD record/Focus Feedback meeting) and a copy of your Training Record. Also upload the Recommendation for Appointment Form (enclosed with the Job Advert) in the ‘Line Managers Approval Form’. If you have any questions about the role, contact RecruitmentSE@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting Job Reference number 23461. Applicants who applied in the last six months should not reapply at this time.
The leadership within CTPSE and SEROCU is actively committed to embedding and sustaining an inclusive culture that recognises and champions the diversity of our people, and promotes equity and equality so that everyone can succeed at work. The region is delivering this commitment through a long‑term strategy that takes a holistic and intersectional approach to wellbeing & inclusion. Our strategy is underpinned by five strategic objectives: Inclusive Culture, Engaged & Involved, Wellbeing, Representation, and Inclusive by Design. We welcome applications from those interested in part‑time and flexible working, and encourage applicants from under‑represented communities. We reserve the right to close this vacancy if we receive a high volume of applications. For best performance when completing your application, please use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge wherever possible.
Detective Sergeant - Covert Operations (SEROCU) employer: Thames Valley Police
Contact Detail:
Thames Valley Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Detective Sergeant - Covert Operations (SEROCU)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former officers in similar roles, especially those in covert operations. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of CSAE and the latest trends in undercover operations. We recommend practising common interview questions with a mate to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you led a team or managed a challenging situation. This will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the Detective Sergeant role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Detective Sergeant - Covert Operations (SEROCU)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Role: Before you start writing, take a good look at the job description. Understand what being a Detective Sergeant in Covert Operations really means. This will help us tailor your application to show how you fit the bill perfectly!
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills in your application. We want to see how your past roles have prepared you for this challenge, especially in leading teams and working with partner agencies.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Upload All Required Documents: Don’t forget to include all the necessary documents like your PDR or CPD record, and the Recommendation for Appointment Form. Double-check everything before hitting submit to ensure we have all we need to consider your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Detective Sergeant in Covert Operations. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of leading the UCOL CSAE team and how to effectively collaborate with partner agencies. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and teamwork. Think about situations where you've successfully managed risk or contributed innovative approaches in challenging environments. This will give the interviewers a clear picture of what you can bring to their team.
✨Understand the THOR Principles
Since managing risk is crucial in this role, take some time to review the THOR principles. Be ready to discuss how you would apply these principles in real-life scenarios during the interview. This shows that you're not only knowledgeable but also prepared to handle the complexities of the job.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the current challenges the UCOL CSAE team faces or how they measure success in their operations. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the position aligns with your career goals.