Fingerprint Services Manager

Job title: Fingerprint Services Manager
Grade: Grade H
Role code: SSC127
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

Direct and manage operational delivery of all specialist fingerprint services (Fingerprint Hub and Chemical Enhancement Lab.), ensuring compliance with ISO accreditation to meet legislative requirements and provide an effective identification service to Kent Police, Essex Police, and other forces.

Main responsibilities:

• Manage and motivate the team and individual performance, providing direction and leadership, to ensure technically qualified staff are competent under the ISO framework participating in recruitment and selection, undertaking staff appraisals, and supporting any developmental, wellbeing or capability issues as required.
• Design and monitor compliance with published SLAs for all Fingerprint Identification and Chemical Enhancement Laboratory measures, to demonstrate compliance with the ISO Quality Standards and ensure service delivery to Kent Police and Essex Police.
• Manage the physical assets and technological developments within Fingerprint Services, including the commissioning of new equipment, managing ongoing maintenance and its replacement through the appropriate funding, and purchasing approval process to deliver a high quality, efficient and effective service which maximises forensic identifications.
• Manage, co-ordinate and develop projects, pro-actively seeking developments in relation to fingerprints, producing project plans, monitoring time scales and objectives, sharing and collaborating with the wider department and external organisations, to ensure the delivery of products that support continual improvement.
• Responsible for the appropriate use and maintenance of the National Fingerprint Database, including records and data management in line with relevant legislation, policy, and procedure, to ensure lawful retention of biometric records and data.
• Manage the production of fingerprint evidence in line with ISO and legislative requirements, which requires attending major & serious crime scenes and mortuaries, to support victim identification and direct staff as required.
• Coordinate and manage Health & Safety checks and audits including risk assessments and COSHH assessments to identify remedial actions and to ensure safe working laboratory environments.
• Develop and maintain interactive, professional working relationships with national and local experts- through meetings, workshops, events e.g. Regional Identification Managers, Fingerprint Specialist and national groups, ensuring that departmental and personal knowledge is kept up to date.

March 2023

Necessary experience:

The post holder will ideally be educated to degree level or hold an equivalent qualification or have the relevant specialist fingerprint skills relevant to this forensic discipline. The post holder will be the force expert in their field and will have a minimum of 8 years experience with an in depth understanding of fingerprint processes, fingerprint identification and ISO accreditation.

The post holder must ensure that Fingerprint Services are compliant with accreditation requirements and relevant legislation including The Forensic Science Regulator Act 2021, the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 and all relevant records management and data protection legislation.

Experience of managing specialist resources to ensure services are accessible is required as well as managing assets including laboratory facilities and specialist equipment.

The post holder will have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written and the ability to analyse, interpret and draw conclusions from data which combined with strong negotiating and influencing skills will enable the broader understanding of this specialist area across the organisations.

The post holder will be collaborative, self-motivated and organised with strong planning skills and the ability to manage multiple issues whilst working to deadlines. A proactive approach is essential. The post holder will have strong IT skills in a range of applications from MS Office, especially Excel, to all force systems and where appropriate national systems and databases.

Behaviours:

We Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I help people be more effective by sharing the best available information and professional knowledge from diverse sources. I ask incisive questions to test assumptions and separate opinion from fact. I recognise when to take decisive action with incomplete information and plan for contingencies. I draw effective conclusions from diverse sources of information and evidence and apply these to deliver results. I assess options to make the best use of resources available, applying business and financial acumen to deliver best results.

We Collaborate (Level 2)

I create a work environment that combines diverse styles, backgrounds and experiences to get better results. I build strong relationships across a broad range of stakeholders, including colleagues, partners and communities, and use these connections to accomplish goals. I work with partners to decide clear roles appropriate to each partner's remit. I include others in my thinking and understand their priorities to make collaboration more effective. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and the people we serve. I manage long-term partnerships sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions.

We Support & Inspire (Level 2)

I support others to understand their aims and wider organisational goals so they can work more effectively. I help others understand organisational changes and help them adapt to and adopt these to deliver better results. I manage resources efficiently to create the most value and to deliver the right impact in my areas. I take time to understand and provide the support people need to work at their best. I show support that helps people feel safe and valued in raising concerns. I create opportunities to support the professional development of others through knowledge sharing, coaching, mentoring and feedback.

We Take Ownership (Level 2)

I delegate appropriately by giving clear direction that recognises people's strengths and potential to achieve more. I monitor progress of my team and work to ensure deadlines are met and my team are clear on their objectives. I take ownership of individual and team performance, not leaving it to others to address problems. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and dealing with any problems both promptly and openly. I am proactive in supporting actions that tackle the bias or prejudice that may be experienced by some groups of people.

We are Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I help other people learn from their experiences and emotional responses to support and improve their performance. I monitor the wellbeing of others, taking responsibility to ensure appropriate support is provided to help colleagues stay at their best, without stigma or judgement. I provide others with confidence by staying focused and composed in stressful situations. I recognise when my colleagues are affected by the demands, stresses and traumas that can exist in policing, and support them however I can. I role model reflecting on my own emotions to promote an open environment to discuss concerns. I role model effective communication, taking into account the needs of others. I promote a culture that values understanding difference and encourages speaking up.

We are Innovative & Open-minded (Level 2)

I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I look for good practice that is not always from policing and consider how I apply it in my role. I provide space and encouragement to help others stand back and review their objectives and approach. This helps them to adopt fresh perspectives and identify improvements. I anticipate future challenges and changes by using my knowledge of trends within and outside policing. I generate creative ways to harness opportunities or meet challenges that arise from changing trends in
policing.

Values:

Courage (accredited)

This means making, communicating and being accountable for decisions, and standing against anything that could bring our profession into disrepute. When we are motivated by courage, we actively uphold the ethical standards of the police service so that we do the right thing even when the circumstances are difficult. We set good examples, challenge unprofessional behaviour and all forms of prejudice and discriminatory behaviour, and any activity which undermines the impartiality of policing. We build and maintain the confidence of the public, our colleagues and partners through the way we conduct ourselves. We maintain professional boundaries with those we serve and work with to help protect ourselves and those around us. We are open about what we have done and why and keep our promises so we can be relied on when needed. We support an environment where ethical issues or unprofessional actions can be raised, questioned, challenged, reported and addressed. We are honest and open in our interactions and decision making. We have the courage to respond to criticism with professionalism. Examples of courage We act with courage when we: Do the right thing, even when it feels difficult Act as role models to encourage professional and ethical behaviour in others Challenge behaviours, language and attitudes that undermine our profession and support others to do the same Stand up against discrimination, prejudice and hate in all its forms Engage in difficult conversations when we hear or see unprofessional behaviour Address incidents of unprofessional conduct and take appropriate action Are open and responsive to scrutiny and challenge Are honest and truthful, giving accurate representations of our actions and records.

Public service (accredited)

When we are motivated by public service, we respect the authority and influence afforded to us by our role in society and the responsibility we have in using our policing powers. We apply those powers lawfully, proportionately and when necessary. As we strive to help deliver good outcomes for the public we serve, we seek to find opportunities to learn and improve ourselves as professionals. We reflect on our actions and decisions to see what could be changed to improve the service we offer the public. We have a responsibility to ensure that we act in the best interest of society as a whole. Improving the safety and wellbeing of the public underpins all that we do. We respond to different communities, taking into account their history and experiences including trauma and adversity. Examples of public service We provide public service when we: Act in the interests of the public, first and foremost Are open and honest about our knowledge and experience with those we serve, even when it can be uncomfortable Act in ways that give others the confidence to share experiences and ideas that can improve outcomes for the public Seek to understand and address the needs and concerns of all our different communities Seek constructive feedback from a wide variety of people, avoiding being defensive Reflect on and understand our own strengths and areas for development and take responsibility for our own learning to address gaps and improve our service to the public.

Respect & Empathy (accredited)

This means encouraging, listening to and understanding the views of others, and seeking to recognise and respond to the physical, mental and emotional challenges that we and other people may face. When we are motivated by respect and empathy, we ensure people feel valued and listened to. We treat them with patience and courtesy where possible, recognising that sometimes we may need to prioritise safety and security. We give them opportunities to share their views and take these views into account. We seek to understand other people's perspectives and recognise they can differ from our own. We engage with people who have a wide range of experiences and needs and provide a service that takes into account each individual's unique circumstances. We ensure everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, is treated equally and fairly, recognising the need to tailor our responses to individual needs to ensure we are being fair and respectful. We understand and recognise that people may respond differently to the same situation. We are careful to recognise and manage our biases, so they do not stop us from engaging with people with different needs and experiences equally and fairly. Examples of respect and empathy We show respect and empathy when we: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, even in challenging circumstances Give people an equal opportunity to share their views and take these into account Recognise and manage our biases to ensure we make fair and objective decisions Take action to understand and appreciate other people's experiences, values and beliefs and how they differ from our own Promote equality and celebrate difference Respond fairly, impartially and with sensitivity to people's needs.

Technical skills:

Budget Management (Level 4)

Accountable for and capable of managing a set budget at a basic level. Fully conversant with financial regulations, processes and procedures and the responsibilities placed upon a budget holder. Capable of and responsible for authorising expenditure from a local budget and aware of the implications of certain courses of action. Can make budgetary decisions having given due consideration to best value.

Business Planning (Level 4)

Gathers relevant information and statistics to support the business planning process at Division / Department level. Identifies key objectives in order to improve local performance and ensures these are aligned with the Force Strategic Aims. Effectively communicates agreed objectives and targets to the local workforce. Plans for and ensures the best use of resources and value for money.

Fingerprint Identification (Level 7)

Maintains a full knowledge of all areas of Fingerprint identification. Regarded as an authority for the Force in the identification of Fingerprints and undertakes confirmation of all fingerprints identified in the Bureau to meet National policy. Able to advise on Force policy and all matters relating to fingerprint identification with particular regard to PACE, Data Protection Act, NAFIS and Health & Safety.

Fingerprint Retrieval & Development (Level 6)

Maintains an expert knowledge of all areas of Fingerprint recording and retrieval. Attends crime scenes and is able to provide expert witness testimony in Court. Regarded as an authority for the Force in the recording and retrieval of Fingerprints to meet National policy. Able to advise on Force policy and all matters relating to fingerprint recording and retrieval with particular regard to Health & Safety.

Health & Safety (Level 5)

Has received training which enables the effective completion of risk assessments and Health and Safety inspections of premises. Identifies defects or hazards and takes action to resolve any apparent health and safety issues within an area or department. Fully accepts responsibility for the safety of members of staff, as well as visitors and contractors. Monitors the application of health and safety related procedures for the area or department. Possession of a certificate level qualification in Health and Safety is desirable.

Information Gathering & Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Knowledge of Police Environment & Policy (Level 4)

Displays a general appreciation of changes affecting the police service. Understands the inter-relationships between the roles of the various Operational and Support activities, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Possesses a detailed understanding of working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role and the roles of subordinates and ensures that these are followed at all times. Is clear about Force goals and effectively contributes to local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 4)

Full compliance with Level 3. Has successfully completed all standard relevant Information Management and Security training package(s). Accurate use of Government Security Classification (GSC). Ensures physical and digital records are stored with appropriate security relevant to the sensitivity of the documents and has working understanding of appropriate National Retention Schedules. Is able to quality assure own records management processes as well as those of any staff for whom they have supervisory responsibility. Is aware of where to seek further support in relation to Records management within force when necessary. If nominated as an Information Asset Assistant is familiar with the NPCC Information Asset Owners Handbook.

Risk Management (Level 4)

Able to anticipate risks likely to affect the team's ability to execute their function, in terms of likelihood and impact, and assesses how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their team and their objectives. Has an understanding of pathways to alert local managers to flawed or ineffective operational control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.

National Occupational Standards:

AA1 (Level Accredited)

Promote equality and value diversity.