This position is based at NMS Stoney Lane Probation Office Sunderland, SR5 2JB, NMS Team Valley Unpaid Work Probation Service NE11 0ZF, NMS Units 1 And 5 Swan House, NE8 1BQ, NMS Victoria House, NE4 7YJ, NMS Wear House, DH1 1TH, NMS Weatherby House, TS18 2SL, NPS 156 BOROUGH ROAD MIDDLESBROUGH, TS1 2EJ, NPS 160 ALBERT ROAD MIDDLESBROUGH, TS1 2PZ, NPS 9 CORPORATION ROAD DARLINGTON, DL3 6TH, NPS Durham City Probation Durham, DH1 5SU, NPS DURHAM HOUSE PETERLEE, SR8 1PS, NPS GREENWELL ROAD NEWTON ALCLIFFE, DL5 4DH, NPS GROUND FLOOR ADVANCE HOUSE THORNABY STOCKTON-ON-TEES, TS17 6QX, NPS MOWLAM HOUSE MIDDLESBROUGH, TS6 6DF, NPS SECRETAN WAY SOUTH SHIELDS NE33 1RG, NPS SOUTH VIEW ASHINGTON, NE63 0RY, NPS WARWICK STREET GATESHEAD, NE8 1PZ Job Summary Please refer to Job Description Job Description There is an exciting opportunity in the North East Probation Region (NEPS) for a Head of Operations (HoOPs). The North East Probation Service is a relatively small but geographically diverse area with some key reoffending hot spot urban areas, and some more difficult to reach rural areas – both pose their own unique challenges to operational delivery. The NEPS has a strong reputation for being a can-do, solution focussed area, committed to doing the right things to keep people safe and to do so in the most effective and lean ways to maximise operational face to face time with those we supervise. The role of the Probation Service is to reduce reoffending and protect the public via a skilled and compassionate, professionally trained workforce. The HoOPs is pivotal to driving the success of the service and by working through others, ensuring the NEPS levels of performance both qualitatively and quantitively are achieved. Responsible for seven geographical delivery units with an approximate staff group of 1,000 and 12,000 People on Probation or subject to Prison Licence in the community, the HoOPs needs to be able to motivate, engage and lead the staff group in all areas of operational delivery spanning Sentence Management, Courts, Prisons, Public Protection, interventions and partnerships in terms of commissioning the right services and for strategic liaison with key partners such as the Police, PCCs, HMCTS, Local Authorities, Health and others. Understanding the policies, procedures and legal basis for the role and how the region works within national frameworks and parameters is also key. Working directly with the Regional Probation Director, the HoOPs is a key member of the regional senior leadership team and will be required to deputise for the Director as necessary. This post requires a resilient, motivated and charismatic leader who can demonstrate excellent communication skills, be willing to make effective and timely decisions, who is happy to act as both a team player but also be able to work independently. Preferably, you will have a passion for social justice which can be imparted with wisdom to encourage, empower and enable other staff / managers to become leaders or experts in this field and enact their duties legitimately and fairly. If you would like to find out further information about the role, please contact Bronwen.Elphick@justice.gov.uk to arrange a discussion. Overview Of The Job The post holder will be responsible for operational delivery by the NPS within the region. The job holder will report to the Regional Director and have line management responsibility for a number of Heads of Local Delivery Unit (LDU) Clusters and the Public Protection function in each region. In larger regions, there will be more than one post holder and responsibility for LDUs will be divided between post holders. Summary The post holder will provide operational direction for the NPS within the region, overseeing and joining up services across several LDU Clusters to ensure an integrated system that delivers on the purpose of probation: to protect the public and reduce reoffending. A key objective will be to ensure that high performance is consistent across LDUs. They will be responsible for strategic direction of the interface with courts and sentencers, as well as key public protection functions such as victims, safeguarding and MAPPA. Working with the Regional Director, they will contribute to the development of strategic objectives across the probation region and operationalise these within the delivery arm of the business. The post holder will ensure that any action plans developed by the Performance and Quality function are implemented in the operational line in a timely manner, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and actively addressing underperformance. They will implement national operational policies and procedures, using an overview of the whole region to identify and address areas of underperformance, ambiguity or inconsistency. The job holder will provide assurance to the Regional Director that the necessary processes are in place and being adhered to in relation to both operational and corporate responsibilities. They will demonstrate inspirational, confident and empowering leadership, supporting the Regional Director in driving an inclusive and positive culture for the region. They will collaborate with external partners at a regional or sub-regional level and represent the Regional Director as appropriate. In line with NPS policies and procedures, the job holder must at all times demonstrate a commitment to equality and inclusion and an understanding of their relevance to the work they do. The post holder must work proactively to deliver the recommendations of the Lammy Report and implement the strategic framework for working with female offenders. The post holder must adhere to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position. They may be required to participate in out of hours senior management on call rota. Responsibilities, Activities & Duties The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties: Line manage a number of ‘Heads of Function’ who are responsible for operational delivery in the LDU Clusters and Public Protection. Hold senior leaders to account for the performance of their LDU Clusters and Public Protection teams, ensuring that consistent and high standards are maintained and taking effective action to address deficits. Develop and implement regional strategies in line with the national strategic framework. Work with senior leaders to ensure a holistic approach to delivery against the strategic direction set by the Regional Director. Provide advice and make ultimate decisions on the management of offenders where senior management authorisation or involvement is necessary. Provide assurance to the Regional Director that systems are in place to manage, monitor and escalate critical cases. Ensure that senior managers, Ministers and Press Office are provided with prompt and accurate information on high profile and sensitive cases that will have a bearing on the reputation of the organisation. Lead strategic work on delivering services to the Courts, working with sentencers and other CJS partners to improve sentencer confidence. Manage devolved budgets in accordance with the financial procedures outlined in the budget delegation and ensure that the region implements effective financial controls. Provide assurance to the Regional Director that LDUs are compliant with all relevant regulations and that all corporate responsibilities are being met. Work with Criminal Justice partners and stakeholders at a regional or sub- regional level to ensure effective delivery. Represent the Regional Director with external agencies in line with delegated functional and decision-making responsibilities. Encourage whole-system alignment within the LDUs by liaising with the Head of Community Integration to ensure contracted and voluntary sector providers of probation services are available to deliver the best outcomes for offenders. Liaise with those responsible for centrally managed services such as Approved Premises to ensure timely allocation to accommodation. Work collegiately with NPS and HMPPS leaders at a national level to inform strategic planning, maintaining a current awareness of wider developments with an impact on the organisation. Model effective management behaviour as a visible and approachable leader, demonstrating a commitment to equality and inclusion. Reinforce pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenge anti-social behaviour and attitudes. Manage resources effectively, balancing competing demands in the prioritisation and allocation of resources across LDUs. Deliver Human Resources related policies and practices including chairing grievance appeals, conduct and discipline and capability hearings. The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation Scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder. Technical 1 Mandatory - Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP). Or, a qualification which was recognised at the time of qualification by the Secretary of State for Justice as per Section 10 of the Offender Management Act 2007. The following qualifications gained in England and Wales were previously recognised as providing such eligibility: ? Probation Qualification Framework Graduate Diploma/Honours Degree in Community Justice integrated with Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice ? BA (Hons)/Graduate Diploma in Community Justice (incorporating a level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice (Vocational Qualification)) ? Diploma in Probation Studies ? Diploma in Social Work (with Probation Option) CQSW (with Probation Option) There is an exciting opportunity in the North East Probation Region (NEPS) for a Head of Operations (HoOPs). The North East Probation Service is a relatively small but geographically diverse area with some key reoffending hot spot urban areas, and some more difficult to reach rural areas – both pose their own unique challenges to operational delivery. The NEPS has a strong reputation for being a can-do, solution focussed area, committed to doing the right things to keep people safe and to do so in the most effective and lean ways to maximise operational face to face time with those we supervise. The role of the Probation Service is to reduce reoffending and protect the public via a skilled and compassionate, professionally trained workforce. The HoOPs is pivotal to driving the success of the service and by working through others, ensuring the NEPS levels of performance both qualitatively and quantitively are achieved. Responsible for seven geographical delivery units with an approximate staff group of 1,000 and 12,000 People on Probation or subject to Prison Licence in the community, the HoOPs needs to be able to motivate, engage and lead the staff group in all areas of operational delivery spanning Sentence Management, Courts, Prisons, Public Protection, interventions and partnerships in terms of commissioning the right services and for strategic liaison with key partners such as the Police, PCCs, HMCTS, Local Authorities, Health and others. Understanding the policies, procedures and legal basis for the role and how the region works within national frameworks and parameters is also key. Working directly with the Regional Probation Director, the HoOPs is a key member of the regional senior leadership team and will be required to deputise for the Director as necessary. This post requires a resilient, motivated and charismatic leader who can demonstrate excellent communication skills, be willing to make effective and timely decisions, who is happy to act as both a team player but also be able to work independently. Preferably, you will have a passion for social justice which can be imparted with wisdom to encourage, empower and enable other staff / managers to become leaders or experts in this field and enact their duties legitimately and fairly. If you would like to find out further information about the role, please contact Bronwen.Elphick@justice.gov.uk to arrange a discussion. Responsibilities, Activities & Duties The job holder will be required to carry out the following responsibilities, activities and duties: Line manage a number of ‘Heads of Function’ who are responsible for operational delivery in the LDU Clusters and Public Protection. Hold senior leaders to account for the performance of their LDU Clusters and Public Protection teams, ensuring that consistent and high standards are maintained and taking effective action to address deficits. Develop and implement regional strategies in line with the national strategic framework. Work with senior leaders to ensure a holistic approach to delivery against the strategic direction set by the Regional Director. Provide advice and make ultimate decisions on the management of offenders where senior management authorisation or involvement is necessary. Provide assurance to the Regional Director that systems are in place to manage, monitor and escalate critical cases. Ensure that senior managers, Ministers and Press Office are provided with prompt and accurate information on high profile and sensitive cases that will have a bearing on the reputation of the organisation. Lead strategic work on delivering services to the Courts, working with sentencers and other CJS partners to improve sentencer confidence. Manage devolved budgets in accordance with the financial procedures outlined in the budget delegation and ensure that the region implements effective financial controls. Provide assurance to the Regional Director that LDUs are compliant with all relevant regulations and that all corporate responsibilities are being met. Work with Criminal Justice partners and stakeholders at a regional or sub- regional level to ensure effective delivery. Represent the Regional Director with external agencies in line with delegated functional and decision-making responsibilities. Encourage whole-system alignment within the LDUs by liaising with the Head of Community Integration to ensure contracted and voluntary sector providers of probation services are available to deliver the best outcomes for offenders. Liaise with those responsible for centrally managed services such as Approved Premises to ensure timely allocation to accommodation. Work collegiately with NPS and HMPPS leaders at a national level to inform strategic planning, maintaining a current awareness of wider developments with an impact on the organisation. Model effective management behaviour as a visible and approachable leader, demonstrating a commitment to equality and inclusion. Reinforce pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenge anti-social behaviour and attitudes. Manage resources effectively, balancing competing demands in the prioritisation and allocation of resources across LDUs. Deliver Human Resources related policies and practices including chairing grievance appeals, conduct and discipline and capability hearings. The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation Scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder. Technical 1 Mandatory - Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP). Or, a qualification which was recognised at the time of qualification by the Secretary of State for Justice as per Section 10 of the Offender Management Act 2007. The following qualifications gained in England and Wales were previously recognised as providing such eligibility: ? Probation Qualification Framework Graduate Diploma/Honours Degree in Community Justice integrated with Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice ? BA (Hons)/Graduate Diploma in Community Justice (incorporating a level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice (Vocational Qualification)) ? Diploma in Probation Studies ? Diploma in Social Work (with Probation Option) CQSW (with Probation Option) Person specification Qualifications Mandatory - Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP). Or, a qualification which was recognised at the time of qualification by the Secretary of State for Justice as per Section 10 of the Offender Management Act 2007. The following qualifications gained in England and Wales were previously recognised as providing such eligibility: ? Probation Qualification Framework Graduate Diploma/Honours Degree in Community Justice integrated with Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice ? BA (Hons)/Graduate Diploma in Community Justice (incorporating a level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice (Vocational Qualification)) ? Diploma in Probation Studies ? Diploma in Social Work (with Probation Option) CQSW (with Probation Option) Behaviours We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process: Leadership Communicating and Influencing Making Effective Decisions Managing a Quality Service Seeing the Big Picture Developing Self and Others Technical skills We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process: Please refer to Job Description Access to learning and development A working environment that supports a range of flexible working options to enhance your work life balance A working culture which encourages inclusion and diversity A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97% Annual Leave Public Holidays Season Ticket Advance For more information about the recruitment process, benefits and allowances and answers to general queries, please click the below link which will direct you to our Candidate Information Page. Link: https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ Selection process details This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience and Technical skills. https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/About%20the%20MOJ Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment. This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience and Technical skills. Security Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks. Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard (opens in new window) checks. Nationality requirements This Job Is Broadly Open To The Following Groups: UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window) Working for the Civil Service The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. Diversity and Inclusion The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan (opens in a new window) and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (opens in a new window). This vacancy is part of the Great Place to Work for Veterans (opens in a new window) initiative. Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Contact point for applicants Job Contact : Name : SSCL Recruitment Enquiries Team Email : moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk Telephone : 0345 241 5358 Recruitment team Email : moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk Further information Appointment to the Civil Service is governed by the Civil Service Commission’s Recruitment Principles. If you feel a department has breached the requirement of the Recruitment Principles and would like to raise this, please contact SSCL (Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@gov.sscl.com) in the first instance. If the role has been advertised externally (outside of the Civil Service) and you are not satisfied with the response, you may bring your complaint to the Commission. For further information on bringing a complaint to the Civil Service Commission please visit their web pages: http://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/civil-service-recruitment/complaints https://jobs.justice.gov.uk/careers/JobDetail/12333?entityId=12333