NORTHERN IRELAND SEARCH AND RESCUE PRACTITIONERS GROUP

The Department of Justice (DoJ) is seeking to appoint an Independent Chair to the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue (NISAR) Practitioners Group.

Northern Ireland Search and Rescue is seeking committed individuals who want to make a meaningful contribution to public safety. We welcome applications from individuals with a range of skills and experiences and are motivated to support life‑saving activity across Northern Ireland. 

Statement from the Outgoing Chair

“Over the past number of years, the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Practitioners Group has grown into a respected, collaborative forum bringing together organisations and individuals, both voluntary and statutory, committed to saving life. The group has played an important role in sharing learning, strengthening partnerships, and promoting good practice across the search and rescue community.

As I step down as Chair, this presents an exciting opportunity for new leadership to build on a strong and well‑established foundation. The next Chair will help guide the group through an evolving risk landscape, support effective collaboration across agencies, and ensure the practitioners’ voice continues to inform and influence search and rescue activity across Northern Ireland.

I would strongly encourage individuals with a passion for partnership working, operational learning, and public safety to consider applying. This is a rewarding role that offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of search and rescue across Northern Ireland.”

It is anticipated that the successful candidate will commence duties from end-September 2026[JO1] [JO2] , subject to pre-appointment checks.  The appointment is for a fixed term of three years with the option of reappointment for a further three years.

The Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Practitioners Group has responsibility for advising the Northern Ireland Search and Rescue Policy Group on all operational Search and Rescue issues.  Further information on the work of NISAR can be found at www.justice-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-search-and-rescue

It is expected that the successful individual will be required to dedicate approximately one day a month to the tasks associated with the position.  This includes chairing the triannual Practitioners Group meetings, attending the triannual Policy Group meetings, responding to correspondence on behalf of the NISAR Practitioners Group and representing NISAR interest at the UKSAR Operators meetings remotely or in person.

The individual appointed to this post must be independent. Therefore, the appointee should not have been involved in search and rescue in Northern Ireland, as their primary role, within the six months up to the closing date of this competition.

The position is not remunerated.  The DoJ will pay reasonable travel and subsistence expenses, at NI civil service rates. 

Essential criteria – experience of: Setting Direction, Delivering Results and Engaging People.

Equality of Opportunity

The Department of Justice is committed to the principles of public appointments based on merit with independent assessment, openness and transparency of process.  The Department is committed to providing equality of opportunity for all applicants.  Applications are welcomed regardless of age, gender, disability, marital status, religion, ethnic origin, political opinion, sexual orientation or whether or not you have dependants. 

We particularly welcome applications from females, people with a disability, and people from minority ethnic communities. In keeping with the NICS Policy on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, we would also welcome applications from those not currently serving on public bodies.

ALL APPLICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT WILL BE CONSIDERED STRICTLY ON MERIT.