Jobs in London - Special Investigations Officer • South East London

Company: CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD

South East London

7 Month Contract With A Local AuthorityPurpose of the JobTo 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 ResponsibilitiesIndependently 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 & ControlsMonitor 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 & TrainingProvide 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 & RepresentationRepresent 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 DutiesParticipate 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.RequirementsDemonstrable 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 qualificationTraining in PACE, RIPA, CPIA, or other relevant legal/investigatory frameworksEvidence of continuing professional development (CPD) in the fraud/investigations field