Commissioner for Investigations

We’re looking for a resilient, inquisitive, experienced professional to become the first Commissioner for Investigations of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery. The Commission is being set up to promote reconciliation and address the legacy of Northern Ireland’s past.
The individual will have a background in investigative work, putting the needs of those who request reviews at the heart of any process. They will be able to draw on existing criminal or other complex investigatory processes, as well as developing new ones which focus on information recovery for victims, survivors and families. In leading the design of this new approach, they will seize the opportunity to do things differently. They will support the wider goal of reconciliation.

The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill represents the government’s pledge to address the extremely complex and sensitive legacy of Northern Ireland’s past, ultimately promoting reconciliation and helping society look to the future. In seeking to achieve this critical objective, the legislation will establish a new body, the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (“the ICRIR”). This body, operating independently of government, will examine deaths and serious injuries that occurred during the Troubles at the request of victims and families.

This is a unique opportunity to make a difference to society in Northern Ireland and across the United Kingdom. The Commissioner for Investigations will be one of a number of Commissioners who will form the Board of the ICRIR. They will work with the Chief Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer in designing and leading the new organisation. The legislation also sets out specific statutory responsibilities for the Commissioner for Investigations, who will have the full powers and privileges of a constable. They will be responsible for the operational control over the conduct of reviews by the ICRIR, the supply of information, and the potential referral of conduct to prosecutors.

They will lead and provide direction to a specialist team of ICRIR officers.  They will have experience of leading and overseeing criminal investigations or other complex investigations, inquiries or information gathering processes. The Commissioner for Investigations will need to be sufficiently flexible and interested in developing different approaches to criminal investigations, promoting reconciliation.
The recruitment process is being undertaken by Russell Reynolds Associates on behalf of the ICRIR programme team.  The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Thursday 18th May 2023. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please visit: www.rraresponses.com.