11401 - Head of Digital Forensics

The Security, Order and Counter Terrorism directorate (SOCT) exists to support HMPPS in its mission to prevent victims by changing lives. We do this by creating the conditions for a firm, stable and secure base on which decent regimes, relationships and rehabilitation can be built.  SOCT is currently formed of two groups of staff, the Operational Security Group and the National Security Group. The directorate has bases across the country making us a truly national organisation having a significant impact on the prison and probation system across England and Wales.
The objective of SOCT is to support the operational field to recognise, understand and manage threats to operational and national security, prison order and safety, and to support our partners in upholding the rule of law. In so doing this Directorate contributes to the aims of HMPPS by providing a sound and secure base for a rehabilitative culture that helps change lives
We are investing in our forensics capacity and capability (specifically digital forensics) to support this mission. We are looking for an experienced forensics professional to develop and lead our emerging forensics capability. It is an exciting and dynamic role that can drive significant change in the directorate and the wider organisation.

Overview of the job

• The post holder will be the head of the HMPPS’ Forensic Laboratory based in Yorkshire. The post holder will also be the Head of Profession for all HMPPS staff conducting forensic activity
• The post holder will identify and implement the necessary quality standards as notified by the Forensic Regulator
• The post holder will represent HMPPS at national forensic governance boards and events
• The post holder will report to the Head of the National Technical Support Group

Summary

• HMPPS are revamping their approach to forensics, in particular digital forensics.
• We are establishing a new central laboratory in Oxfordshire where much of our forensic examination activity will take place. The post holder would manage this facility.
• The post holder would also be responsible for the laboratory design (e.g fixtures and fittings) and for developing new workflow processes for the laboratory to work to
• HMPPS are also rolling out more frontline forensic capability (in prisons and regional teams) The post holder would act as Head of Profession to these teams
• The post holder would have responsibility for designing/sourcing and implementing the training, processes and standards for the front line capability
• The post holder will have ownership of all forensic technology deployed in HMPPS
• HMPPS will need to adhere to some of the emerging quality standards for digital forensics. The post holder would be responsible for negotiating with the Forensic Regulator what these are and implementing them
• The post holder would be responsible for managing audits of these standards in HMPPS – both at the central laboratory and at the front line capability
• HMPPS need to forge better relationships with other organisations doing forensics. The post holder will be responsible for creating and joining relevant national forensic networks and governance arrangements.

Responsibilities, Activities & Duties

• Design the physical layout for the new laboratory and project manage its implementation
• Design and implement revised workflows and procedures for the new laboratory
• Broker and implement joint approaches to some forensic procedures and activities with policing
• Line manage the Forensic Laboratory Supervisor and be the countersigning manager for four forensic technicians
• Manage the rollout of frontline forensic technology to up to 30 locations throughout HMPPS
• Develop training and standards for up to 100 HMPPS staff involved in undertaking frontline forensics
• Be the Head of Profession for all staff in HMPPS undertaking forensic work
• Work with the Forensic regulator to identify the standards that HMPPS must adhere to and design plans for achieving these
• Implement quality standards (for example ISO 17025, ISO 17020 and ISO 9001)
• Maintain, audit and review procedures within the forensic capability to ensure compliance with the certification / accreditation standards, acting on and resolving any non-compliances.
• Attend national multi-agency forensic meetings and represent the HMPPS view
• Scan for developments within the forensics world and identify opportunities for HMPPS within these

Competencies

For the purposes of selection, the following competencies will be measured:

Setting Direction:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Changing and Improving

Delivering Results:

• Managing a quality service

Engaging People:

• Leading and Communicatin
• Collaborating and Partnerin

Essential Skills Qualifications, accreditation & Registration

Evidence of managing forensic capability (especially digital forensics) within a public organisation

Evidence of managing law enforcement change projects 

Hours of Work (Unsocial Hours) Allowances

37 per week

Closing Date: 11th August 2017 at 23:55 hours

If you require any assistance please call 0845 241 5358 (Monday to Friday 8am - 6pm) or e mail Moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@sscl.gse.gov.uk. Please quote the job reference.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Simon Airey (simon.airey@noms.gsi.gov.uk)