Job Description

This is a pivotal moment for policing as it responds to increasing demand, evolving threats and rapid technological change. The establishment of the National Centre for AI in Policing marks a significant national investment in transforming how policing harnesses data and technology to deliver its mission. At the formal launch of PoliceAI the Policing Minister Sarah Jones gave this overview - Policing minister on the launch of PoliceAI - GOV.UK.

Against this backdrop, the Director of PoliceAI is a senior national leadership role operating at the heart of the policing system. The scope is substantial, spanning multiple aspects of operational policing and requiring sustained engagement with Chief Constables, Police and Crime Commissioners, Mayors, Ministers, industry leaders, academics, civil liberties groups and international partners.

As the accountable head of the Centre, the Director is responsible for delivering its core mission: improving policing outcomes, increasing productivity, strengthening investigative capability and enhancing public confidence through the safe, ethical and evidence-based use of artificial intelligence. The role is directly accountable to the Chief Executive Officer of the College of Policing and to Home Office Ministers, with strong oversight and interest from senior policing leaders.

This is both a strategic and delivery-focused role. The Director will lead the creation and development of a new, high-profile national capability, setting direction, establishing operating models, and building a high-performing organisation from inception through to maturity. This includes overseeing the development and scaling of priority AI-enabled use cases, embedding robust testing and assurance frameworks, and supporting adoption across forces in a way that is practical, sustainable and aligned to operational realities.

The role requires navigating complexity at pace. The Director will operate across the intersection of operational policing, advanced technology, governance, ethics and public accountability, balancing innovation with assurance, and ambition with the need to maintain public trust. The ability to make confident, evidence-informed decisions in uncertain and high-profile environments will be critical.

As a member of the senior leadership community, the Director will play a key role in shaping the College’s broader agenda, working collaboratively with Executive colleagues and governance structures, and ensuring alignment with wider policing reform and government priorities. The role demands strong corporate leadership, effective delegation and the ability to build and lead multidisciplinary teams.

The Director will also engage with complex and high-profile issues, including those arising from reviews, inquiries and emerging risks associated with new technologies. This will involve translating learning into clear standards, guidance and assurance approaches that drive improvement and build confidence across policing and with the public.

Success in this role will require an exceptional leader with strong credibility, sound judgement and strategic vision. You will bring intellectual curiosity, a clear commitment to public service, and the ability to communicate complex issues with clarity and authority to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

This is a demanding but unique opportunity to shape the future of AI in policing, providing clear national leadership while ensuring the highest standards of ethics, accountability and operational effectiveness.

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