In teams of Probation Officers, Probation Service Officers and administrative staff, Senior Probation Officers (SPO) perform the role of Team Leader and Manager.
Probation Areas differ in relation to the range and scope of the SPO role but generally SPOs are accountable for performance management, ensuring quality and overseeing risk management.
SPOs are frequently appointed from within the PO grade, although appointments are made to SPO posts from suitably qualified external applicants.