JOB DESCRIPTION A. POST DETAILS: Job Title: Operational Security Officer (OPSY) Department: Covert Investigations Unit Area: Force Headquarters Reports To: D/Supt Ashley Croft No of Posts: 1 B. PURPOSE OF THE POST: Page 1 of 9
In line with the national guidelines for the OPSY role, the post holder is essentially an experienced adviser on all matters of, particularly covert, but also overt police operations, tactics and investigations to his/her colleagues at all levels of management within the organisation and representing the British Transport Police when in liaison with other police forces and agencies on such matters, not only to ensure that the integrity of the BTP is maintained, but to ensure that its actions fall in line with national guidelines and current national best practice. In addition he/she has the BTP specific role of maintaining the covert integrity of its covert unit premises and being personally responsible for the day to day proper management of a considerable sum of the forces monies allocated for that purpose, currently in excess of 250,000. He/she has a further BTP specific responsibility as the single point of contact with other agencies and organisations for a number of sensitive systems and processes. The post holder will provide a Quality Assurance / Inspection & Review function in respect of covert/overt activity and operations, planning, recommending and implementing revised systems and procedures, in order to ensure the effective implementation of all aspects of such activity. The post holder will provide a service to colleagues Senior Managers and ACPO Ranks engaged in covert/overt operations and investigations by way of advice, guidance and operational reviews in respect of tactics and methods being used or considered. This will include how legislation including Disclosure and CPIA might impact on any future prosecution and if the tactics or method proposed are appropriate and proportionate, within the overall policy for the use of covert/overt options. Provide advice and support to operational managers on current and completed operations, in relation to the targeting, recruitment, conduct, use, tasking and productivity of covert human intelligence sources and the deployment, servicing and dissemination of products from all technical sources, ensuring that all such sources are utilised in accordance with the JAPAN principles and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. This will include providing advice and guidance on the disguise of origin of the product. The post holder will identify and promulgate best practice in relation to intelligence handling and operational security, providing advice and guidance to support Senior Investigating Officers namely Detective Chief Superintendent, Detective Superintendents, Detective Chief Inspectors and operational managers. Conduct independent inspections and reviews of the operational use of intelligence and operational security arrangements, in order to ensure the integrity and quality of intelligence. utilisation within the force. Report on the state of the Force s intelligence operations, including the annual formal report on operational security actions taken throughout the year, highlighting remedial actions taken and developing strategic policies as required, in order to maintain Chief Officers awareness of intelligence issues within the Force. The post holder will assess all intelligence products throughout the Force irrespective of source, and enter Central Authorities Bureau and Area Source Handling Units without recourse to line managers, in order to quality assure and check the integrity of all such products. Review and audit the operational use of all intelligence sources both independently and intrusively or as the result of a specific request from the Force Director of Intelligence, ensuring that all such utilisation of intelligence is justified, auditable, proportional, authorised, necessary and cost effective. The post holder will advise on the security, integrity and ethical conduct of all covert/overt law enforcement techniques and covert/overt tactics utilised, and will implement and maintain consistency in standards of security and practice in accordance with legislation, national guidelines and local policy. He/she will promote a culture where operational risk is recognised, managed valued and practiced throughout the Force. The post holder will provide the central point of contact to the National Compromise Database held by Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) for the reporting of all compromises to covert/overt tactics and provide quality assurance and analysis to identify trends and vulnerabilities to Senior Police Officers. He/she will provide guidance and advice in respect of FoI and Data Protection issues concerning covert methods and tactics. Crypto Custodian The post holder will be Nationally authorised to carry out the requirements of a crypto custodian which is a post required of all units that hold crypto material. To be Nationally authorised it is required to attend a Nationally Accredited Course. This involves training at Thames House or CESG and then opening and maintaining a crypto account. The crypto custodian is responsible for keeping a complete monthly audit of all crypto material. CESG rules require regular musters of the kit the ordering of new edition keys and new purchases of crypto material in a timely fashion from the Cabinet Office and CESG. The Crypto Custodians will have responsibility for both Cougar and Covert Airwave Radios and their secure keyfills. These are used by the Covert Investigations Unit Level 1 surveillance team and as such require regular checking and mustering in accordance with the Manual of Protective Security. As they are often deployed around the country they require robust systems and audit trails. Strap Security Officer Page 2 of 9 The post of Strap Security Officer (strapso) must attend a Nationally Accredited Training course at Thames House or CESG. The Strapso is responsible for the correct handling of all strap material received/handled in the Force, both electronic and hard copy. Effectively the keeper of the secrets for the Security Service, the Secret Intelligence Service and CESG. This job also involves inducting all new staff with a strap briefing and de-
Physical Security and ROSS duties There are a great many requirements for the physical security of the Covert Premises and associated accounts contained in the Manual of Protective Security. These range from the physical construction of the premises through doors, locks, alarm systems and storage cupboards/safes as well as the maintenance and auditing of a large number of keys and alarm codes as alarm administrator. The post holder will maintain responsibility for physical security of the premises and accounts. In addition the post holder will provide advice guidance and support to the Regional Operations Support Supervisor (ROSS) with regards to highly sensitive undercover operations. Staff and visitor security The post holder will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the protocols with regards to whether persons are permitted to attend the covert premises. They will ensure that all those who do attend are fully briefed concerning the confidentiality that is required to maintain security surrounding the location of the covert premises. Without these covert premises BTP would lose its accreditation to run Undercover operations. Furthermore if the premises were to be compromised there is a potentional cost of over 250,000 to BTP. The post holder will provide a range of operational support functions to the D/Supts and Unit Manager in respect of Covert Investigations involving Serious or Organised criminality. This will entail filtering non-urgent operational enquiries thereby allowing the investigators to concentrate on matters pertinent to the investigation. Covert Companies Another role is to manage our covert companies and be the SPOC for the redirection of all mail relating to them and its correct dissemination or response. The protocols for dealing with the finances of these companies are of vital importance to ensure the processes, whilst covert, are robust, transparent and accountable and protected from abuse. As part of this role the post holder will be responsible for arranging the transfer of considerable sums of money (currently 250,000+) from BTP funds into a number of covert accounts which he/she will be required to justify, manage, spend appropriately and maintain accurate records of and a robust audit trail and be prepared to justify to independent auditors, Finance and BTP senior management. Continue on a separate sheet and attach if required Page 3 of 9
C. DIMENSIONS OF THE POST Financial Direct or Non-Direct To be trained to administrate and operate SAGE Financial software package. In addition the post holder will be trained to use the e-procurement system to ensure full auditing of requisitions is maintained. This is particularly relevent in the dynamics of the ever-changing environment of covert crime enquiries. To set up and maintain accurate covert financial records to track a budget of over 250,000 worth of monies using the SAGE Database so that the Unit manager senior management and the ACPO ranks are fully aware of all expenditure incurred at regular intervals during any particular investigation and the general running costs of the covert premises. Set in place processes to ensure the timely capture of financial data. To manage bank accounts associated with the CIU and ensure cash is available for all ongoing investigations conducted by the CIU Special Branch and Dedicated Sourse Unit. To maintain an accurate audit trail in relation to income and expenditure against these accounts. To manage large amounts of cash ( 250,000+) and electronic/cheque expenditure with total integrity and to ensure that such monies are appropriately audited. In addition the post holder will create financial procedures to ensure these transactions are safeguarded to minimise organisational risk to BTP. Staff Responsibilities Direct or Non-Direct Be the first line manager to administrative personnel within the CIU. To have specialist advisory responsibility for all personnel within Covert Investigations Unit, National Crime Team, Special Branch, Dedicated Source Unit and Professional Standards Department with regards to operational security and integrity matters. To ensure welfare issues are addressed and resilience within the key functions is maintained. To maintain close liaison with Heads of Departments in an advisory role where security issues or covert tactics relate to their staff. To have direct reporting access to the Deputy Chief Constable without reference to senior managers where issues of integrity are concerned. All other operational issues to be reported to the relevent Head of Department or unit manager as appropriate. Any Other Statistical Data Manage and prepare and develop relevant management performance information on behalf of the Head of Crime and the Unit manager. To maintain the risk register and business continuity plans for FHQ Protective Services on behalf of the Protective Services Risk Manager. Ensuring that strategic risks are identified and processes are put in place to minimise their impact D. PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABLITIES: Page 4 of 9
Audit and quality control operational security in relation to all intelligence products whether generated on the Force Intelligence System, Covert Human Intelligence Sources or from other covert techniques. To have unrestricted access to all force systems relative to these disciplines without recourse to line managers reporting to the relevant Head of Department or direct to the Deputy Chief Constable on integrity issues. Efficiently and effectively maintain covert bank accounts in relation to a number of departmental activities. Accurate and timely financial reporting via the SAGE database to enable the CIU to operate within budgets reporting to the Unit Head or Head of Protective Services as appropriate. Manage the timely preparation and presentation of performance data / reports - for Senior Management Team, Head of Protective Services and Unit managers Effective logistical management of CIU assets for the Head of Unit. Thereby ensuring a comprehensive range of highly specialised equipment is available to be deployed often at short notice to support the frontline fight again organised criminality. Maintain Nationally Accredited training for security including Cougar Encryption, Airwave End-to-End encryption, Strap Security Officer, Physical Security of the operational premises and security in relation to IT and computer equipment for relevant Heads of Units. Provide backstop functionality and perform the duties of Regional Operation Support Supervisor for Head of CIU E. CONTACT WITH OTHERS: Internal Continue on a separate sheet and attach if required Maintain a close liaison with ACPO ranks,senior Managers and specialist staff, and in particular Heads of Departments, within the Covert Investigations Unit, Special Branch, Dedicated Source Unit, National Crime Team, Professional Standards Departments, senior investigating officers, Force Intelligence Bureau and RIPA Authorising Officers and hold regular meetings with them as appropriate to advise on security and integrity issues and covert tactics. Liaise as appropriate directly with the Deputy Chief Constable on integrity issues. Maintain a close liaison with key staff and Heads of Departments of Procurement, Finance, Performance monitoring, IT, Facilities, Fleet, Force Security Manager, Central Authorities Bureau and Human Resources. External The post holder will be required to provide advice and guidance to Senior CPS Lawyers, Barristers and Inspectors from the Office of Surveillance Commissioners in respect to disclosure protection of witnesses and RIPA. Page 5 of 9
Attend if appropriate meetings between Senior Investigating officers other specialist police investigators and other law enforcement agencies such as police forces, SOCA, HMRC, Senior CPS lawyers, barristers and other security agencies in an advisory capacity in relation to the methodology and protection of covert policing tactics so that all forces and other agencies maintain a standard approach to the protection of witnesses and disclosure of sensitive material so that potential compromises are minimised or prevented, not only within the BTP but the wider police family within the UK. Maintain a close liaison with key officials in financial institutions and other outside agencies as the single point of contact within the BTP for them in relation to sensitive police tactics to enable the covert unit to continue to operate in a covert manner. Act as the BTP single point of contact with the Serious and Organised Crime Agency with regards to compromise reporting and the National Compromise Database. Attend National OPSY conferences and regional OPSY meetings representing the BTP and maintain regular contact with others in the National OPSY network to ensure best practice is promulgated. Act as an ambassador for the BTP when dealing with all outside agencies within the specialised covert arena. Maintain close liaison with Financial Institutions and other organisations to enable the Unit to continue to operate in a covert manner. Page 6 of 9
F. EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING: Essential Criteria Post holder must be vetted to SC level or higher, have successfully completed Nationally Accredited training courses in relation to the post of Strap Security Officer and Crypto Custodian. The post-holder must have the highest standard of personal integrity. The post holder will be educated to Degree standard or possess relevant work-based experience. Must have successfully attended and completed the NPIA National Accredited Operational Support Officer training course. The post holder must be trained to adminstrate and operate SAGE financial package. In addition be trained and provide guidance on the use of the e-procurement system as well as Word, PowerPoint, Excel and other standard office applications. In addition the post holder must be proficient with other Police software applications including OBELISK FIS and HOLMES packages. The post holder must have a working knowledge of IT hardware and software, and be able to advise on the security of databases. The post holder must be proficient and comfortable in dealing with senior management at both Force and Area level in order to present performance and risk information. They must have an aptitude to digest complex operational plans, manage highly sensitive information within the government protective security guidelines and the operational credibility to influence key decisions at a senior level within the covert/overt law enforcement environment. Page 7 of 9
The post holder must maintain a comprehensive knowledge of legislation, national standards and good practice, and Force policy on all areas of covert/overt policing. They will need to provide comprehensive and in depth knowledge and experience of CPIA specifically with regards to retention disclosure and disposal of PII material. They must be able to demonstrate how to put in place processes to ensure compliance with the Government Protective Marking Scheme. The post holder must be proficient and comfortable in dealing with senior management at both Force and Area level in order to present performance and risk information The post holder will need to evidence the principles of Performance Management and Risk Management and demonstrate experience of having produced such data in a time critical and concise format. The post holder will be required to demonstrate Project Management ability and be PRINCE trained. The post holder must be able to represent the organisation at all levels internally and externally with government agencies and law enforcement partners, both within the United Kingdom and internationally. The post holder must demonstrate effective communication both in writing and orally and the ability to exercise initiative within this specialist field. The post holder must be able to develop policies and standard operating procedures (SOP s) for the organisation, consulting with all stakeholders and understanding the fiscal implications of such policies or SOP s. The post holder must show the ability to manage thematic inspections of covert/overt units within the organisation. The post holder must be able to effectively market the services and functions of OPSY s. The post holder must demonstrate flexibility and ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines, using their own initiative to prioritise workloads and progress issues, without recourse to line management. When required, to undertake secondment to current operations to provide advice. The post holder must hold a current full UK drivers licence. This is essential to enable the post holder to attend locations throughout the United Kingdom where rail travel may not be an option. The post holder must be able to provide pragmatic solutions to operational problems as well as possessing the necessary interpersonal skills to influence corporate stakeholders. The post holder will be able to work under minimal supervision maintaining his or her own motivation at all times. The post holder will ideally have worked for at least five years in a senior position within an enforcement/ security environment. He/she must be able to demonstrate their knowledge and experience of the management of human and technical intelligence sources. Additionally the post holder will have a comprehensive understanding of the organisation, for example, knowledge of intelligence led policing. The post holder must have a good standard of personal presentation, and be aware of own effect on others, acting as a positive role model The post holder must be flexible in approach to working hours and location. The post holder will need to provide evidence of performing the role of "Backstop" for Covert Premises. Post holder will need to possess excellent written and oral communication skills, have an assertive yet polite disposition, be extremely well organised The post holder should have some formal training qualification and experience of delivering presentations or guidance to other officers in relation to the role of OPSY Desirable Criteria The post holder should have attended a national accredited course of training in relation to the role of Regional Operation Support Supervisor. Page 8 of 9
Continue on a separate sheet and attach if required G. ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (including any particularly challenging/difficult aspects of the job) This role requires the post holder to have an in depth knowledge of police systems and methods of working. The integrity of the post holder is paramount as they will be reporting on suspected breaches to Deputy Chief Constable. The post holder will also need to be familiar with the National Intelligence Model and the associated ACPO documents in relation to information management and the procedures associated with intelligence gathering. The post holder will work closely with other agencies within the covert intelligence family and will be an ambassador for the force in such forums. Continue on a separate sheet and attach if required AUTHORISATION DETAILS: Prepared By: DI Barry Townsend Date: 30 th June 2010 Authorised By: Page 9 of 9