Special Investigations Officer

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

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