Policy and Commissioning Officer

Salary:
Scale H, £45,042

Location:

Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCC), Police HQ, Durham, DH1 5TT
. Some remote working may be expected, subject to mutual agreement.

Hours/

Contract:

Full time, 37 hours per week, Fixed Term Contract for 9 - 12 months, Maternity Cover

Closing Date: 5pm, Wednesday 4th March 2026

Are you passionate about supporting victims and making a real difference in your community? If the answer is yes, you could be part of a dynamic team in the Police and Crime Commissioner's Office, helping to shape vital services that support victims of crime.

The post holder will develop and deliver policies for the PCC, linked to strategic partnerships, developing a range of initiatives deriving from the objectives in the Police, Crime and Justice Plan, based on evidence of and liaison with partners; they will brief the PCC, senior managers and partners on key issues.

The PCC has a responsibility to commission services for victims - this role is specifically around the development of this work including development of strategic needs assessments, commissioning and co-commissioning of services, identification of gaps in services, management of contracts, working closely with partners, victims and stakeholders to improve outcomes for victims, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs met.

We are looking for someone with experience in policy development or commissioning who is a strong communicator who can build positive relationships across diverse groups. You should hold a degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area.

• To develop partnership policy and commissioning plans on key specific areas within the Police, Crime and Justice Plan to advance the PCC's objectives, in liaison with all partners; this includes influencing internal and external policy and commissioning decisions involving complex and sensitive areas.
• To conduct research and analysis to inform the development of partnership policy and commissioning plans and projects, making the best use of the data and expertise of partners.
• May be required to supervise staff arising from as part of successful funding bids.
• To undertake horizon scanning and analysis for the OPCC, monitoring local, regional and national policy and commissioning developments that could impact on the PCC's role and functions and advising the PCC as appropriate.
• To use policy and commissioning knowledge and expertise to support the development of partnership plans and strategies, helping to ensure they are evidence-based and therefore most likely to support victims of crime and vulnerable people, reduce reoffending and improve public confidence.
• A good knowledge of project initiation, management and monitoring as required.
• To commission projects to support the PCC and partnerships to achieve their objectives, in liaison with partners, working through the PCC's Commissioning Board.
• To audit and monitor commissioned services to ensure they are meeting their objectives.
• To facilitate and support the development of the work programmes including the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Executive Group.
• To produce reports and briefings on progress, to inform decision-making by senior managers and partnerships, in liaison with partners.
• To brief the PCC, in writing and in person, prior to attending local, regional and national meetings.
• To prepare accurate, creative and timely presentations, reports and summaries for the PCC and OPCC Management Team and partnerships on a range of policy and commissioning, analytical and delivery matters.
• To represent the OPCC and the PCC at internal and external events, and to liaise with a range of partners to address priorities and concerns.
• To undertake any other tasks, duties or projects that may arise from time to time which are commensurate with the general level of this post as directed.
• The postholder may be required to attend engagement events either on an evening or a weekend with, or on behalf of the OPCC/PCC.

Degree or equivalent in a relevant academic subject.

• A good understanding of strategic partnership landscapes and potential impact of major policy changes.
• Experience in developing policy and commissioning plans.
• To possess a full, current driving license or have access to a means of mobility support.

• Understanding of working for an elected official.

If you hold a higher qualification than those required above or minimum 5 years relevant experience, please evidence this on your application and it will be reviewed by our recruitment team.

For further information, please view the Job Description and Person Specification attached.

If you'd like to apply, please forward a copy of the attached Application form, by the closing date.

External Applicants - please use the external application form.

Internal applicants - please use the Internal application form.

Please also complete and return the equal opportunity form and return this with your Application form.

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