Security Industry Authority seeks new chair to succeed Elizabeth France

The SIA, of course, is the executive non-departmental public body responsible for regulating the UK private security industry. It’s an important delivery partner protecting the public by dint of ensuring that unsuitable people are prevented from working in the industry.

The SIA’s two main duties are the compulsory licensing of individuals undertaking designated activities within the private security industry and managing the voluntary Approved Contractor Scheme, which measures private security solution suppliers against independently assessed criteria.

As chair of the Authority, the successful individual will contribute towards the overall strategic direction and corporate oversight of the organization, thereby ensuring – in tandem with other members – that the Executive Team is held to account for discharging its duties effectively and to the highest possible standards.

The successful candidate will provide effective leadership for the operation of the SIA, playing a significant role in ensuring that the SIA and its staff maintain the capability to deliver the SIA’s statutory responsibilities and objectives, take fully into account the Government’s objectives and priorities for protecting the public and enable the SIA to respond positively and constructively to any changes in its policy or operational context.

In addition, the post-holder must help the SIA to achieve its performance indicators, as defined in the Business Plan, deliver value for money and both develop and maintain effective partnerships at a strategic level with key bodies.

This is a three-year appointment with the possibility of re-appointment at the end of that period. The role commands a salary of £54,963 per annum. Due to the nature of the appointment, the role is offered on a part-time basis of two working days per week. Home working is involved, but there will be regular meetings at Canary Wharf in London.

Person specification

Applications should meet the following essential criteria.

Part One – Essential Criteria

*Outstanding strategic leadership qualities that will inform and influence a compelling vision

*Ability to work with the executive and non-executives to develop a high-performing Board, leading the strategic direction and working in a constantly evolving environment

*Ability to manage a complex range of stakeholders and work collaboratively to build consensus among diverse individuals

*Strong understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the chair, the Board and the CEO in the governance arrangements of a non-departmental public body or equivalent public or private sector organisation

*Ability to work in a transformational system and business change environment in order to reflect the significant strategic and operational transition the organisation is experiencing

*Professional track record that demonstrates dynamic and strategic leadership and inspires confidence in the individual’s ability to guide the SIA in its mission of protecting the public

*Successful track record of managing relations with a complex range of stakeholders in an environment where decisions are taken under tough internal and external scrutiny

*Sound understanding of (and a strong commitment to) diversity, equal opportunities, public service values and the principles of public life

Part Two – Personal Skills

*Excellent communication, influencing and relationship management skills

*Ability to work collaboratively using persuasion and influence effectively in a high-profile environment

*Undisputed personal integrity and a personal style that demonstrates authority and commitment to public services values

*Ability to engage successfully with the media

Assessment Panel and applications

The Assessment Panel comprises Dan Greaves (chair), director of the Crime, Policing and Fire Group within the Home Office, Margaret Beels (chair of the Gangmasters Labour Abuse Authority) and Colleen Harris MVO (communications and media advisor).

The closing date for applications is 11.00 pm on Monday 21 September.

Applicants should submit the following four documents, all of them clearly labelled, by e-mail to: publicappointments@homeoffice.gov.uk

*Comprehensive CV (maximum two sides of A4, minimum 11-point font) setting out career history and including details of any professional qualifications

*Short supporting statement (maximum two sides of A4, minimum 11-point font) giving evidence of the strength and depth of the individual’s ability to meet the essential criteria for the role. Provide specific examples to demonstrate how each of the experience, qualities and skill areas identified in the person specification are met

The Assessment Panel will sift the initial applications on 5 October with final interviews taking place in the week beginning 9 November.

*Full application details are available on the Cabinet Office’s website