Ofgem is the independent regulator for Britain’s energy sector, dedicated to safeguarding consumers both now and in the future by driving the transition to a greener and fairer energy system.
About the Job
Location:
Cardiff, Glasgow, or London
Job Summary:
Fraud poses a significant risk to the integrity of the energy sector, and at Ofgem, we are committed to tackling this challenge head-on. We are seeking a Head of Counter Fraud to lead the development and implementation of robust fraud prevention strategies, ensuring that energy schemes are protected from exploitation.
As Great Britain’s independent energy regulator, Ofgem plays a vital role in safeguarding consumers, particularly vulnerable groups, while supporting the transition to Net Zero.
This is a fixed-term contract (secondment or loan) with an opportunity to make a real impact in a high-profile role. You will lead a team of counter fraud specialists, working to protect billions of pounds in government-backed energy schemes. Your work will involve enhancing fraud detection, prevention, and enforcement to ensure that funds are used appropriately.
Operating at a national level, you will engage with government departments, industry bodies, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen fraud deterrence. Your leadership will directly contribute to maintaining consumer trust, market integrity, and public confidence in energy initiatives.
We are looking for an experienced professional with a strong background in counter fraud, investigations, and risk management, preferably with experience in developing large-scale fraud prevention strategies. As a leader, you will inspire and guide a team in a complex regulatory environment. Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, as you will collaborate with senior government officials, industry professionals, and regulatory bodies to advance Ofgem’s counter fraud agenda.
At Ofgem, we value our employees and provide a comprehensive benefits package that supports professional development and well-being. Our Civil Service pension scheme offers long-term financial security, and our flexible working arrangements help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.
This role presents a unique opportunity to lead the fight against fraud, influence national policy, and make a tangible impact on financial crime prevention in the energy sector.
Job Description
Purpose:
As Head of Counter Fraud, you will lead multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring high-quality project delivery within Ofgem’s Professions and Flexible Resourcing model. You will drive key workstreams, set strategic objectives, and oversee performance while fostering a collaborative and inclusive team culture.
Initially, the role will be based in the Delivery & Schemes division. However, you may later be redeployed across Ofgem, contributing to cross-functional projects and providing expertise in compliance and enforcement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage high-performing teams, ensuring efficient resource allocation and professional development.
- Oversee a structured counter fraud programme, protecting £12B+ in environmental and social energy schemes annually.
- Develop and implement strategic counter fraud policies to enhance fraud prevention, detection, and enforcement.
- Provide expert guidance to internal teams, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
- Engage with government agencies, law enforcement, and industry stakeholders to strengthen fraud prevention efforts.
- Represent Ofgem in external engagements, including investigations, regulatory discussions, and policy forums.
- Monitor fraud risks, analyse trends, and implement risk management strategies to mitigate emerging threats.
- Ensure compliance with GovS 013 Counter Fraud Standards, upholding best practices in fraud prevention.
Key Deliverables:
- Establish and lead a high-performing counter fraud team, ensuring effective resource management.
- Develop and oversee fraud risk frameworks, ensuring Ofgem’s schemes remain protected.
- Support staff training and development, fostering expertise in fraud prevention and compliance.
- Drive innovation in fraud detection and deterrence, leveraging technology and data analytics.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
- Proven experience in developing and implementing fraud prevention strategies at scale.
- Strong knowledge of counter fraud principles, investigations, and risk management.
- Expertise in GovS 013 counter fraud standards or equivalent policy development.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
- Experience leading teams in a matrix working environment, managing multiple priorities.
- Strong leadership skills, with a track record of building and developing high-performing teams.
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience managing high-volume and/or complex fraud cases.
- Background in multi-agency collaboration during fraud investigations.
Behaviours & Technical Skills
During the selection process, candidates will be assessed on the following Civil Service Behaviours:
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Leadership
- Making Effective Decisions
- Communicating and Influencing
Candidates will also be evaluated on their technical expertise as outlined in the Candidate Pack and Role Profile.
Benefits
Salary & Pension:
- Base salary: £61,446
- Ofgem contributes £17,800 towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme
Work-Life Balance & Professional Development:
- 30 days of annual leave (after two years of service)
- Flexible & hybrid working options
- Exceptional training and development opportunities
- Access to family-friendly policies, including parental leave and flexible working arrangements
Other Benefits:
- Modern, centrally located offices
- Engaged employee networks and support groups
- A chance to contribute to Net Zero goals by 2050
This role offers a unique opportunity to drive impactful change in the energy sector while advancing your career within a forward-thinking regulatory body.
Application Process
This recruitment follows the Success Profiles framework, assessing behaviours, experience, and technical skills.
Application Steps:
- Complete an online application detailing:
- Personal information
- Career history & qualifications
- 1250-word personal statement addressing essential and desirable criteria
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews & assessments
- Final selection based on merit, integrity, and experience
Note: The Civil Service upholds principles of honesty and integrity. Any instances of plagiarism or misrepresentation will result in disqualification from the process.
Feedback will be provided to candidates who attend an interview or assessment.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead fraud prevention efforts at a national level, influence policy development, and protect public funds in the energy sector.
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