Overseen by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner, Sir Brian Leveson, the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (more commonly known as IPCO) currently employs approximately 150 people, including Inspectors, Authorising Officers, Lawyers and Policy officials.
IPCO is committed to creating an increasingly diverse and inclusive workplace. Our people are our greatest asset and we aim to foster a safe environment where diversity of thought and experience is welcomed, work-life balance is valued and opportunities for growth are encouraged.
The IPCO team supports the Investigatory Powers Commissioner and Judicial Commissioners in fulfilling their duties under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.
Before this legislation came into force, three precursor organisations were merged to form IPCO in September 2017. The previous organisations were the Office of Surveillance Commissioners (OSC), the Interception of Communications Commissioner’s Office (IOCCO) and the Intelligence Service Commissioner’s Office (ISComm).
Under the terms of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016, funding for IPCO is provided by the Home Secretary. However, IPCO carries out its functions independently of the Government and is not part of the Home Office.