Location: Leatherhead, Surrey, UK
Working arrangements: Hybrid
Department: Member Legal Services Department (reporting to Director of Member Relations)
Role Overview: The Head of Member Legal Services at the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) is a senior leadership position with a strategic focus on overseeing the Member Legal Services department which comprises the Federations Claims processing and Legal team. This role is responsible for running claims operations and member legal services, ensuring alignment with the broader objectives of the PFEW and for proposing the vision and direction for the department.
The incumbent will oversee a team of legal professionals, both in-house and through contracts and agreements with panel solicitors, and the claims team, which consists of claims administrators and experienced policing claims advisors. The incumbent will work closely with senior policing advisors, ensuring high-quality legal support and advice are consistently provided to Members who claim legal support. The role requires key skills in managing claims; claims systems; and process improvements in claims processing. Additional skills in an understanding of legal frameworks relevant to law enforcement is desirable.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning and Oversight: Develop and implement a strategic plan for the Member Legal Services Department that aligns with PFEW’s strategic goals. Oversee the department’s performance, ensuring delivery of high-quality claims processing and legal services.
Team Leadership and Development: Lead and mentor the team, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth. Ensure the team is well-resourced and equipped to handle complex legal challenges regarding Member claims.
Claims Process Management: Oversee the end-to-end claims processing function, ensuring timely and accurate handling of claims. Implement best practices and streamline processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, whilst overseeing quality assurance management of panel firms
Budget and Resource Management: Oversee the allocation and management of resources within the Member Legal Services department, ensuring optimal use of personnel, budget, and external legal services.
Stakeholder Management: Engage with stakeholders, to represent PFEW’s claims related interests. Foster strong relationships with Senior Policing Advisors, Members, Branch staff and Fed Reps to advance the Federation’s strategic objectives regarding Claims.
Governance and Compliance Oversight: Ensure robust governance structures are in place within the Member Legal Services Department for legal compliance and ethical conduct. Monitor and report on risks and compliance issues to the executive team and relevant committees.
Policy Leadership: Guide the development and review of legal policies and procedures relating to Member Legal Services, ensuring they are current, compliant, and effectively support PFEW’s mission and objectives.
Systems Leadership: In collaboration with IT, design and implement system enhancements to the Claims system for improved budgeting, forecasting, and efficiency information.
High-Level Legal Advisory: Working with the In-House Legal team to provide top-tier legal advice to PFEW’s executive and key committees on claims related critical issues, strategic initiatives, and policy matters.