7 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Purpose of the Job
* To manage a varied caseload of complex investigations referred to the Anti-Fraud and Corruption Team (A-FACT), ensuring cases are investigated to the highest professional standard and in accordance with statutory and internal requirements.
* To produce comprehensive, high-level written reports that include conclusions and actionable recommendations for the relevant Director.
* To ensure the prevention, detection, and investigation of fraud and corruption across the Council.
* To ensure that appropriate outcomes such as sanctions, disciplinary action, or prosecutions are applied effectively.
* To uphold and promote the Council’s core values, anti-fraud policies, and commitment to integrity and public trust.
Key Responsibilities
* Independently manage a diverse caseload of fraud and corruption allegations involving employees, members, contractors, clients, and customers.
* Conduct complex and sensitive investigations to a high professional standard and in accordance with legislation such as:
* Maintain accurate records (manual and digital), preserving evidence securely and ensuring integrity for legal or disciplinary processes.
* Carry out interviews (including under caution) and take contemporaneous notes where necessary.
* Participate in joint operations with police, including search and arrest actions, with awareness of personal safety requirements.
* Act as Disclosure Officer in legal proceedings, managing evidential material and witness statements.
Policy, Prevention & Controls
* Monitor and review internal procedures during investigations; identify control weaknesses and recommend improvements to enhance fraud prevention and internal governance.
* Undertake pre-employment vetting for high-risk roles; verify information and liaise with other departments when irregularities are found.
* Lead and coordinate the Council’s involvement in the National Fraud Initiative (NFI), ensuring compliance with national data-matching requirements.
Advisory & Training
* Provide specialist advice and guidance on fraud prevention to internal stakeholders.
* Design and deliver fraud awareness training and proactive anti-fraud campaigns for Council staff, managers, and members.
* Use document examination techniques and fraud detection software to authenticate identity or official documents during investigations or Council processes.
Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
* Represent the Council at internal disciplinary panels, external professional conduct hearings, and in court proceedings.
* Collaborate with external agencies including other local authorities, the Metropolitan Police, and central government bodies on joint investigations and anti-fraud initiatives.
* Support the Council’s Communications and Press Office in publicising successful prosecutions to enhance deterrence.
Additional Duties
* Participate in covert surveillance (mobile, foot, or static), ensuring compliance with RIPA and human rights legislation.
* Supervise, train, and support temporary staff, agency workers, or apprentices within the team.
* Undertake site visits and interviews outside of normal working hours, when required.
* Maintain continuous professional development on fraud investigation techniques, legislation, and local authority procedures.
* Participate in recruitment processes for the team as required.
* Work from home as required under Council policy.
Requirements
* Demonstrable experience of conducting complex investigations in a local authority, law enforcement, or regulatory setting.
* In-depth understanding of relevant legislation (e.g., PACE, Fraud Act, RIPA, CPIA).
* Proven ability to compile detailed investigation reports with clear conclusions and actionable recommendations.
* Experience of managing sensitive and confidential investigations with professionalism and discretion.
* Proficiency in using investigative tools and techniques, including document verification.
* Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
* Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and interview techniques.
* Ability to manage a varied workload independently, prioritising competing demands.
* Able to deal with challenging situations diplomatically and tactfully.
* Effective stakeholder engagement and partnership working.
* High level of integrity and attention to detail.
* Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist (ACFS) or similar recognised qualification
* Training in PACE, RIPA, CPIA, or other relevant legal/investigatory frameworks
* Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD) in the fraud/investigations field