Meet DI Rhianna Smee

What motivated you to join Northamptonshire Police?

I have always been someone who has really enjoyed meeting new people and doing what I can to support those going through a difficult time. I know that I myself am one of the lucky ones, I have been blessed with the kind of relationships that will sustain me whatever life throws at me. Not everyone has that. For me, being a police officer, being that person anyone can turn to when their world is falling to pieces is a really honour.

What were your ambitions when you joined Northamptonshire Police?

I didn’t join Northamptonshire Police with a clear agenda. I suppose one of the things that really appealed to me was the breadth and variety of the business. That said, I landed in public protection back in 2014 and haven’t really looked back. Having spent some time in the domestic abuse unit and tackling perpetrators exploiting children online, I have served the last five years in the Child Abuse Investigation Unit, managing a dedicated team and working closely with partners to keep young people safe.

In the last few months, I have been seconded to a project team and am now collaborating on a piece of transformation work that aspires to reimagine how professionals work with families in need of support. While a steep learning curve, Northamptonshire Police has put its faith in me and allowed me this unique opportunity to develop and expand my skillset as a Detective Inspector in the organisation.

How do you balance your career and family commitments?

About 11 years into my career, I had my own children and, to date, am still a part time flexi-worker with a shift pattern that allows me to do my fair share of school runs, swimming lessons and keep the chaos of home life under control. Naturally, there are times when I have to be flexible to the needs of the organisation, but it absolutely goes both ways.

What achievement are you most proud of?

I have been asked to talk about the achievement I am most proud of but in truth I don’t think I can boil it down to one thing. I am proud every day of the teams I have managed and of everything they achieve, whether that is a great court result or just taking the time to work out what a family needs to keep their children safe and how to get there. Policing is a tough job but there are some really fantastic people doing it and it is our officers I am most proud of!

What would you say to someone who is considering a career as a detective?

The role of a detective can be massively demanding, and resilience is undoubtedly key.  I don’t think there is any getting away from that. That said, with the right mindset, it will land you as part of an incredible team who make a real difference to people’s lives. It’s a job like no other. You may not get a great deal of praise, but ultimately you are the people bringing the worst of society to justice and supporting those who have suffered to be heard.  

Interested?

Has DI Smee's story piqued your interest in becoming a police officer? Take a look at how you can join us here at Northamptonshire Police or view all our current vacancies.