Permanent - Inspector - Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Officers
Thames Valley/Hampshire; As this is a JOU position, the posting location is flexible. The post holder will be required to travel in line with both regional and national commitments.
1 x position available
** Please note this opportunity is only available to operationally competent Cadre Tactical Firearms Commanders or initial Firearms commanders willing to achieve cadre accreditation.**
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Applications are invited from substantive inspectors and will be invited from substantive sergeants through a promotion board but not yet promoted to inspector.
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We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Tactical Firearms Commander to provide expert command and leadership of the Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Officers (CTSFO) for the SE region (Thames Valley / Hampshire).
This role acts as a pivotal link between National Armed Policing (Specialist Capabilities) and regional forces. This will involve an expectation of attending national meetings which are often ‘in person’
In addition there will be a requirement to undertake a national ‘on call’ week. Typically 1 in 8. This on call function primarily deals with the mobilisation and co ordination of CTSFOs in support of national operations. You will not be expected to command these operations.
You will be expected to achieve and maintain cadre TFC accreditation through support to the JOU command rota.
Key Responsibilities:
- To provide leadership and management of the Counter Terrorism Specialist Firearms Officers.
- Maintain an effective/efficient process for individual and team performances, development and welfare to support the, Force and Departmental plans. Work closely with the CTSFO hub CFI to ensure Firearms training needs and requirements are effectively managed.
- Act as a Tactical Firearms Commander providing clear guidance to resolve both planned and initial firearms Incidents across the host force. Support the force TFC rota providing flexible cover to both the primary and secondary roles.
- Manage compliance of the CTSFO hub in respect of operational command/supervision, tactical capability and deployment of tactics to meet the strategic objectives and Public/Officer safety.
- Manage teams effectively to ensure 24/7 requirements are met, appropriate response and contingencies for incidents and adherence to APP and SOP’s.
- Participate in the planning and preparations for specific operations/events.
- Manage and participate in the recruitment and selection of constables and sergeants when necessary.
- Monitor and ensure adherence to Health and Safety legislation in respect of teams and other staff.
- Manage and direct CTSFO hub to support local, regional and national operations, intelligence tasking and maximise team performance.
- Organise, conduct and participate in host force, regional and national meetings as required.
- Manage officer overtime, resources and carry out administrative functions related to the role e.g. budgets for fleet and equipment.
- Deputise for the Chief Inspector – Tactical firearms when and where necessary, also actively engage in the Home Force Firearms SMT.
If you are a proactive, experienced leader with a passion for supporting and developing firearms capability and capacity at both national and regional level, we would welcome your application.
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For further information regarding the role, please contact Insp Ade Wappner or CI Robb Webb.
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Application method:
Click 'apply' at the bottom of the screen and complete the application form. Applications must include the following:
- Expressions of interest should be no more than one side of A4 and cover your reason for applying, the experience you will bring to the role as well as evidencing the following CVF areas at level 2;
- Take Ownership
- We support and inspire
Selection for this role will be via paper sift followed by a board chaired by the Supt - Firearms, with the recommended candidate put forward for ratification by the Chief Officers for Hampshire and Thames Valley. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their applications and reasons for applying.
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Important guidance for applicants:
If you are currently in a force critical post, there is an expectation that you will remain in that post for a minimum of two years before applying to change roles (or 18 months for custody sergeants).
Candidates may be required to pass vetting and OHU or attend assessments and courses for this role. If any of these are failed the candidate will be posted back to their previous position. Postings are determined in accordance with organisational need although consideration will be given to personal circumstances.
For any queries regarding the advert or recruitment process, please e-mail Police Officer Internal Recruitment quoting reference 14403.
Suitably endorsed and eligible applications must be completed by 10:00 on Monday 16th March 2026.
