Chief Inspector Promotion Process- November 2025

Introduction

We are keen to promote talented Inspectors from diverse backgrounds to the rank of Chief Inspector to deliver our outstanding service to the public, to lead our people, and to respond effectively to the demands we face.

As a Chief Inspector you will be required to carry out the role of Force Duty Officer and therefore may be required to work a 24/7 shift pattern. If there are any particular significant reasons why this may cause problems for you, such as requirements for a flexible working pattern and/or welfare considerations please advise #police promotions or policepromotions@avonandsomerset.police.uk 

Please note that applicants will be measured across the competencies and values set out in the Competency Value Framework (2024) throughout the promotion process.

Before beginning your application via the eRecruitment system, please ensure you have read all guidance associated with this process (copies of which are attached to the advert); Candidate Guidance Notes, Competency and Values Framework for Policing and Work-based Assessment Criteria. These can be found Chief Inspector promotion process - Pocketbook

It is expected that officers once posted will remain in their new posts for at least 12 months (2 years for Neighbourhood and Custody roles) from the date of appointment and, in some exceptional cases where there is a greater payback/operational need, this period may be longer.

You can read what it is like being a Chief Inspector in Avon and Somerset police in the attached blog from Chief Inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen.

 The Process

1. To apply for this vacancy, applicants should click the ‘Apply Now’ button on the advert and follow the instructions on screen
2. Completed applications must be received by 1200hrs on Monday 17th November. Late applications will not be accepted.
3. Applications will be shortlisted to determine who will proceed to assessment, applicants will be advised of the outcome on Wednesday 26th November at noon.
4. Interviews will be held on Monday 8th December through to Friday 12th December at Portishead Headquarters. 
5. Interview results will be published on Wednesday 17th December.
6. An appropriate level of feedback will be provided at each stage of the process, taking into account the volume of applications.

General Information

The number of estimated vacancies = 11

In all cases the Chief Constable reserves the right to appoint an individual to any police officer post taking into account welfare issues, succession planning, redeployments and development needs.

Successful applicants working flexible or part-time hours may have to re-negotiate their flexible working agreement with their new manager in accordance with Police Regulations and Force Policy.

Successful applicants will be required to attain a command responsibility appropriate to this rank. Appropriate command responsibilities are Tactical Firearms Commander, Public Order Commander, or Senior Investigating Officer.  This must be achieved within a reasonable timeframe after promotion to Chief Inspector to enable successful applicants to be added to the respective command cadres. This will be a requirement for any further career progression to Supt.

Every effort should also be made to reduce TOIL accrued in excess of 50 hours before commencing new role.

Avon and Somerset Police are committed to equality and diversity and particularly welcome applications from people from minority and underrepresented groups. All applications will be treated on merit.

If you are from an underrepresented group and would like support with the process, please email Representativeworkforce@avonandsomerset.police.uk

Please indicate on your application form if you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the promotion process.

Contact PolicePromotions@avonandsomerset.police.uk  prior to the closing date if you require any assistance with your application form e.g. larger format.

If you have any queries regarding the process, contact PolicePromotions@avonandsomerset.police.uk.