The Metropolitan Police has gone public with its recruitment bid to fill the post of Deputy Assistant Commissioner. It follows the departure of DAC Lucy D’Orsi to become the new Chief Constable at the BTP.

DAC D’Orsi was appointed last year following the retirement of Paul Crowther.

The Met is using the opportunity to reshuffle some of the responsibilities of its top team.

The portfolio that DAC D’Orsi was responsible for included gold public order commander for policing of multiple events. She also had London responsibilities for Royalty and Specialist Protection, Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection, Aviation Policing and Protective Security.

She has retained responsibility as the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Taser and Counter Drone UK capabilities.

The Met said the new post holder could “have the chance to take on national operations”.

The new DAC will also be tasked with “inspiring a positive culture at all times”.

Negotiating with the private sector firms who run critical infrastructure such as airports is remaining part of the remit – and will be critical as funding is unlikely to grow significantly over the next few years. The Met said the person specification includes “commercial acumen”.

The job description explains: “One of your priorities will be to review the performance within your own function and ensure we have the right resources to achieve our plans. Your strategic mindset will help us get the very best out of our funds.”

The new DAC will also have to drive “strategic organisational change and identify emerging trends”.

It adds: “You’ll liaise with the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime and represent the Service. You’ll also lead major change programmes, helping to drive efficiencies while inspiring improvements. You might also have the chance to take on national operations. No matter your task, you’ll help us to meet the challenges of today – and tomorrow.”  

However, there is scope for the job to utilise experience gained in previous roles that are not part of the current specification.

A Met spokesperson told Police Oracle: “The exact role and responsibilities are yet to be finalised.”  

A colleague of Lucy D’Orsi praised her “collaborative and inclusive approach”. People working with her “see a leader showing what leadership is truly about”.