Head of Corporate Development in Exeter

Devon and Cornwall Police is establishing a new Corporate Development Department and is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to serve as its inaugural head. This senior role will be responsible for shaping the department’s strategic direction, coordinating organisational delivery and overseeing improvement activity across both operational and enabling services. The post holder will work closely with the Chief Constable, Deputy Chief Constable and Executive Team and will represent the Force with key external partners including HMICFRS, the OPCC and national policing bodies.

The role also provides direct strategic support to the Chief Constable, leads the Executive Staff Office and oversees culture, inclusion, analytics and business intelligence functions. The successful candidate will guide the development and delivery of the Force’s strategic business plan and ensure that decision‑making is informed by evidence, insight and strategic risk. They will manage inspection, audit and assurance activity, coordinate organisational learning and continuous improvement, and provide clear reporting for scrutiny and public accountability.

The role also requires strong leadership of governance frameworks, ensuring the Force has effective structures that support planning, prioritisation and compliance, and that corporate services work together to achieve shared aims. This is a significant organisational leadership role with direct impact on reputation, performance and long‑term planning.

Applicants should be educated to postgraduate degree level or have equivalent experience in a relevant field. They must bring substantial senior‑level experience in strategic planning and corporate coordination within a complex organisation, including planning and delivering long‑term organisational direction. Strong knowledge of public sector governance, planning cycles, resource management and performance measurement is essential.

Applicants must have a proven ability to use data, analytics and performance insight to shape strategic decisions. They should also have senior business management experience leading multi‑disciplinary teams, along with the ability to influence at executive level, build productive relationships and work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders. Success in this role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills. The post holder must be able to set out a clear vision, translate strategic aims into practical plans and communicate confidently across the organisation and with external partners. Skilled stakeholder engagement, professional credibility and the ability to work in a high‑paced, regulated and scrutinised environment are critical.

Please note, candidates are only required to evidence 6 out of 11 role profile essential criteria in their application. The remaining criteria will be tested at the assessment day.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future direction of policing across Devon and Cornwall. We offer a supportive environment, flexible working and the chance to contribute meaningfully to public service. Starting salary will be negotiable and dependent on the successful candidate’s knowledge, experience and demonstrating high calibre of talent and potential to significantly improve service delivery. Relocation allowance will be considered.

Location: Police Headquarters, Exeter
Salary: Grade 12 – A GBP 75,201 rising annually to a maximum of A GBP 84,534 per annum
Type of employment: Permanent
Type of working arrangement: Hybrid Worker
Hours per week: 37 hours per week (flexible part‑time options available)