Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards

5 Year Fixed Term Contract

Full-time c.£128,000

Location: Parliamentary Estate with remote working

The House of Commons was the first parliamentary chamber in the world to introduce independent scrutiny of MPs with the establishment of the role of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards. This was created in 1995 to ensure independent consideration and investigation of allegations against Members. 

The current Commissioner’s term ends in December 2022 and so the House is now looking to appoint her successor. Alongside the investigatory remit, the Commissioner is responsible for reviewing the MPs’ Code of Conduct in each Parliament and making recommendations for any change. Since 2018 the Commissioner has also had responsibility for overseeing investigations into bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct under the House’s Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme. The Commissioner’s role is a demanding one, but is also a unique opportunity to play an active role in building confidence in our parliamentary democracy.  

The role requires someone with a successful track record at a senior level within a complex organisation in the public, private or not-for-profit sectors. There is no prescribed background for the Commissioner but your professional track record will inspire confidence in your ability to lead and ensure independent, robust, evidence-based and timely investigations. Whatever your background, you will be able to demonstrate your proven ability to make decisions in complex and sensitive matters as well as show how you have successfully managed relationships with a range of senior stakeholders.  

Personal qualities will also be important. You will need strength of character and good judgement and will have the confidence and resilience to work under close parliamentary, media and public scrutiny.

For more information about the role please click Apply or for an informal discussion please contact lPSC@gatenbysanderson.com. Further detail regarding registration of interests and eligibility are contained in the candidate pack. 

Applications (CV and supporting letter) should be submitted via the GatenbySanderson website by Tuesday 19 April 2022