Job IntroductionAn exciting opportunity has arisen for a proactive and experienced professional to join Trading Standards East Midlands as a Regional Illegal Tobacco Officer. This pivotal role supports and strengthens enforcement efforts across nine Local Authority Trading Standards Services within the region, contributing to the national fight against illegal tobacco.This role aligns with the Government's 2024 strategy, “Stubbing Out the Problem”, which aims to reduce both the demand for and supply of illicit tobacco products in the UK. Building on the success of Operation CeCe a joint initiative between National Trading Standards (NTS) and HMRC. The successful candidate will play a critical role in enhancing enforcement capability across the East Midlands.Key Responsibilities
Leading and coordinating regional enforcement operations to disrupt the illegal tobacco trade.
Conducting investigations including gathering evidence, taking statements, and preparing cases for prosecution.
Preparing evidence for both Criminal and Civil Courts.
Developing and managing regional projects and strategies to reduce the availability of illegal tobacco.
Actively collaborating with local Trading Standards teams, HMRC, police, and other enforcement partners.
Delivering measurable outcomes aligned with national objectives.
Facilitating intelligence sharing, data analysis, and dissemination of best practice across the region.
Representing the East Midlands at national meetings and contribute to cross-regional coordination efforts.
Working closely with the National Trading Standards (NTS) Project Lead to support and provide resources for local investigations and operations. Acting as a conduit between NTS and local enforcement agencies to strengthen ties and deliver positive outcomes. This includes coordinating regional activity, sharing intelligence, and supporting operational disruptions against the illegal tobacco supply chain.
About the RoleThis post is a fixed-term contract until March 2029 hosted by Lincolnshire County Council. The postholder will be operating across the Trading Standards East Midlands covering the following local authorities:
Derby City Council
Derbyshire County Council
Leicester City Council
Leicestershire County Council
Lincolnshire County Council
Nottingham City Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
North Northamptonshire Council
West Northamptonshire Council
You will work closely with Trading Standards officers across these authorities, as well as HMRC and other law enforcement agencies, to ensure effective, intelligence-led disruption of illegal tobacco sales. The post holder will report to the Head of Lincolnshire Trading Standards, with oversight from the Trading Standards East Midlands Partnership Manager.Essential Requirements
Proven experience in enforcing legislation and conducting investigations.
Strong understanding of Trading Standards roles and relevant regulatory frameworks.
Excellent project management, coordination, and communication skills.
Ability to build effective partnerships and collaborate across multiple agencies.
Willingness to travel regularly throughout the East Midlands and attend national meetings as required.
You will be required to pass Level police vetting
Have a car available for work and drivers licence
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant initiative while making a tangible difference to communities across the East Midlands.InterviewsInterviews will be held in Lincoln on 29th September.For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Mark Keal on or Lisa Foster on who will be happy to discuss the opportunity further.Due to recent changes in immigration law in the UK we are unable to offer skilled worker visa sponsorship for this role as it does not meet the requirements of .Please be advised that this position may be subject to a criminal record check.All candidates are advised to read the attached job information pack prior to making an application.On occasion we receive significantly more applications than expected for some vacancies and under such circumstances we reserve the right to bring forward the closing date of the advertisement. We therefore strongly advise you to apply for the role promptly to avoid disappointment should the closing date be brought forward.We operate a talent pool scheme whereby candidates who are not successful on this occasion may be considered for a period of up to 3 months for equal positions.Lincolnshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.A Smarter Working EmployerWe have embraced new ways of working and hybrid working will be a feature of this role. You will be given a nominated contractual work base and you will be required to commute to this work base when necessary. Working arrangements regarding hybrid working will be discussed as part of the appointment process.Our technology platform and equipment is very good enabling you to connect and collaborate remotely. We require that you have in place good connectivity, and we will discuss during the recruitment process if support with this is needed.Fluency DutyIn accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 (Fluency Duty), the ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post.Attached documentsRegional Illegal Tobacco Officer
Salary £42,829 - £47,181
Frequency Annual
Job Reference 2657/1253
Contract Type Fixed Term
Closing Date 14 September, 2025
Job Category Trading Standards
Location Newell Building, Lime Kiln Way, Lincoln , United Kingdom
