Appropriate Authority (Professional Standards Department)

We are seeking a highly organised and professional individual to support the management of Lincolnshire Police’s public complaints and internal misconduct processes. Working within the Professional Standards Department, you will play a key role in ensuring complaints, conduct matters and Freedom of Information requests are managed effectively, ethically and in line with legislation, national guidance and Force policy.

Acting as the Appropriate Authority, you will assess public complaints and officer and staff conduct matters, helping to maintain the highest standards of integrity, accountability and public confidence.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing and overseeing the recording, allocation and resolution of public complaints and misconduct matters.
• Providing expert advice and guidance on policies, procedures and best practice relating to complaints and conduct matters.
• Acting as the Appropriate Authority when assessing public complaints and conduct matters involving police officers and staff.
• Managing complaint review processes and ensuring recommendations are implemented.
• Processing Freedom of Information requests within statutory timescales and in line with information governance requirements.
• Monitoring case progression, identifying risks and delays, and ensuring work is completed to agreed quality standards.
• Supporting inspections, audits and reporting requirements, including the production of statistical and performance data.
• Developing the knowledge and capability of colleagues through coaching, guidance and knowledge sharing.

Why This Role Matters

This is an important role that helps ensure transparency, accountability and public trust in policing. By overseeing complaint and conduct processes, providing expert guidance, and ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements, you will contribute directly to maintaining professional standards across the Force and supporting continuous improvement.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone with strong analytical, organisational and communication skills who can confidently manage complex and sensitive casework. You will be able to:

• Interpret and apply legislation, policies and procedures accurately.
• Make sound and impartial decisions when assessing complaints and conduct matters.
• Manage competing priorities and work effectively to challenging deadlines.
• Build positive working relationships and provide clear advice to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure high standards of governance and data quality.
• Demonstrate a commitment to Force values and the principles of the Code of Ethics.

Interested?

If you are looking for an opportunity to make a significant contribution to professional standards and public confidence in policing, we would love to hear from you.

Please review the full job description and person specification for further information on the role, responsibilities and essential criteria before submitting your application.