Band 7 Investigation Officer

NHS; Newport; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in the UK is seeking an Investigating Officer to lead employment law-based investigations within Trust policies. The ideal candidate should have significant experience in conducting complex investigations, produce formal reports, and possess a strong understanding of employment law and HR policies. This role requires a degree-level education or equivalent along with professional registration. The position offers an opportunity to enhance employee experience while adhering to confidentiality and data protection standards.

Qualifications

• Significant experience conducting complex investigations.
• Proven ability to produce formal written reports and analyse incidents for improvement.
• At least 6 months of administration experience in the last 3 years.

Responsibilities

• Lead investigations into employee relations matters.
• Plan and manage multiple investigations simultaneously.
• Conduct interviews fairly and prepare high-quality reports.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to data protection standards.

Skills

Conducting complex investigations

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Attention to detail

Proficiency in IT for report writing and data analysis

Managing sensitive situations

Education

Degree-level education or equivalent experience

Postgraduate diploma or Masters in a relevant field

Professional registration (CIPD, NMC, HCPC, GMC, Social Work)

Job description

Job Summary

Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University Trust are looking for experienced investigation officers to support their Corporate Hub. Isle of Wight NHS Trust (IWT) and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHU) share a vision of a single corporate service across our two organisations, supported by a single set of identical systems and processes, under joint leadership, to drive significant efficiencies, improve employee experience, and return time to patient care.

The Investigating Officer will lead employment law‑based investigations into employee relations matters across the Trust, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and procedures. This includes conducting thorough investigations, analysing evidence, and producing clear, comprehensive reports. The role requires a strong understanding of Just Culture, equality, diversity, and inclusion principles, and the ability to manage sensitive and complex cases with professionalism and impartiality.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead investigations into employee relations matters (conduct, grievance, complaints, appeals) in line with Trust policies.
• Plan and manage multiple investigations simultaneously, ensuring adherence to agreed timescales.
• Conduct interviews with employees and witnesses in a fair and unbiased manner.
• Prepare high‑quality investigation reports and present findings at hearings or tribunals.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection and information governance standards.
• Make recommendations for service or policy improvements based on investigation outcomes.
• Work independently, managing investigations with minimal supervision while adhering to ACAS best practice principles.

Person Specification – Experience

• Significant experience conducting complex investigations.
• Proven ability to produce formal written reports and analyse incidents for improvement.
• At least 6 months of administration experience in the last 3 years.

Person Specification – HR Knowledge

• Strong understanding of employment law and HR policies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage sensitive situations and distressed individuals.
• High attention to detail and ability to work autonomously.
• Proficiency in IT for report writing and data analysis.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Degree‑level education or equivalent experience.
• Postgraduate diploma or Masters in a relevant field.
• Professional registration (e.g., CIPD, NMC, HCPC, GMC, Social Work).

UK Professional Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website.