Chief Inspector

Job Description:

Chief inspectors manage operational teams in their districts like CID or neighbourhood policing, and coordinate responses to major incidents.

Job Category:
Aerospace & Defence

What you will do:

Your day-to-day duties could include:

  • assessing intelligence information
  • developing policing policies and tactics
  • planning the best ways to carry out operations and investigations
  • working closely with communities and professional partners
  • managing staff performance
  • reviewing law enforcement operations

You’ll also take charge of the response to major incidents in your area when they happen.

Skills:

You’ll need:

  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • knowledge of psychology
  • legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • leadership skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • customer service skills
  • planning and problem-solving skills
  • the ability to build relationships
  • the ability to make effective decisions under pressure
  • negotiating skills
Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You’ll need to:

  • apply for fast-track development through the ranks, if you’re an existing police officer
  • apply for promotion, if you’re a current inspector
  • join a direct entry training programme, if you’re an exceptional candidate with management and leadership experience

Working Hours and Environment:

You’ll usually work 37 to 45 hours a week, which could include some weekends and evenings.

You’ll be based in a police headquarters and spend some of your time attending meetings with the local community and senior managers.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience and further training, you could move up the policing ranks from chief inspector to superintendent, and on to assistant chief constable and chief constable.

You could also work for the security services, MI5 and MI6, Civil Nuclear Constabulary or Ministry of Defence.