Police Scotland is seeking an experienced and motivated senior leader to undertake the role of Interim Chief Operating Officer (COO) within our Digital Division for a period of up to 12 months. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal leadership role in one of the UK's largest and most complex public sector digital environments, supporting frontline policing, public safety and national digital transformation.
Reporting directly to the Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) and acting as their formal deputy, the postholder will provide strategic and operational leadership across Digital Division, helping to shape and deliver the organisation's Digital, Data and ICT ambitions while ensuring the effective delivery of critical digital services.
The Role
The Interim Digital Division COO will lead the operational management of the Digital Division, providing leadership across digital service delivery, technology operations, governance, financial management, programmes and people leadership. The role carries accountability for significant revenue and capital budgets, strategic supplier relationships, digital transformation programmes and the delivery of technology services that support policing across Scotland.
Working closely with the CDIO, Police Scotland colleagues, the Scottish Police Authority, Scottish Government and national policing partners, you will provide leadership on digital strategy, innovation and organisational performance while helping to deliver measurable improvements in operational effectiveness and public service outcomes.
What We Are Looking For
We are interested in hearing from candidates who can demonstrate:
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Significant senior leadership experience in a Departmental Chief Operating Officer, Digital Operations Director, Deputy Director, Chief Technology Officer, Chief Information Officer or equivalent role.
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A strong track record of leading Digital, Technology and data operations/service delivery.
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Experience of managing substantial operational and capital budgets, resources and strategic investment programmes.
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Proven capability in leading complex portfolios of projects and programmes within large organisations.
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Strong stakeholder management skills, including experience operating and influencing senior stakeholders
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Experience of delivering organisational change, service improvement and innovation in complex environments.
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Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical matters into clear business outcomes.
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A collaborative and values-driven leadership approach that inspires high-performing teams and builds effective partnerships.
Desirable Experience
Applications are particularly welcomed from individuals with experience within below areas but this is only desirable:
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The UK Public Sector.
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Policing, law enforcement, criminal justice or wider public safety organisations.
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National or multi-site organisations operating within complex governance and regulatory environments.
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Large-scale digital service delivery and technology-enabled transformation programmes.
Flexible Working
Police Scotland is committed to supporting flexible ways of working. We welcome expressions of interest from candidates seeking:
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Full-time or part-time arrangements.
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A combination of on-site and home-based working, subject to business requirements.
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Flexible working patterns that support both organisational needs and individual circumstances.
The primary work location is currently Dalmarnock, Glasgow, with regular engagement across Police Scotland, partner organisations and national stakeholder groups.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity will suit a highly motivated leader who combines strategic vision with operational delivery, has a passion for public service and can quickly establish credibility across a complex stakeholder landscape. You will bring the experience, judgement and leadership capability required to help shape the future of digital policing while ensuring the continued delivery of critical services that support officers, staff and communities across Scotland.
Applications from candidates with relevant policing, justice, public sector and digital leadership experience are strongly encouraged.
Job advert
Vacancy Prospectus.pdf – 548KB
You should have been resident in the UK for a minimum of five years immediately prior to application for this role
Currently Police Scotland have guidance in place that allows appropriate roles to be operated on an agile basis, should you have an interest in working more flexibly then we would encourage your application.
In accordance with the Police and Fire Reform [Scotland] Act 2012, this post has been designated as politically restricted or sensitive. Please contact the Talent Acquisition team for further information and guidance if required.
