
Maqsood Khan
Maqsood, 46, joined the Civil Service in 2005 and has held various roles since.
Tell us a bit about your journey into the Civil Service
I was once an Organic Chemist working in the chemical industry. I soon realised this wasn’t for me and I needed a change. My wife Zaheda, who was already working for CPS, encouraged me to join the Crown Prosecution Service. In 2005 I joined as a Witness Care Unit Manager. Since then, I have held various positions such as a Paralegal Officer, Case Progression Manager and a Business Manager. During this time, I studied law part time and became a lawyer. I qualified in 2016 and now I am SCP within the Fraud Unit.

Describe a day in the life at your current role
I review files and make charging decisions in the Fraud Unit revolving around Benefit Fraud, Tax Evasion and believe it or not, eggs. If eggs aren’t the right size a company can be prosecuted.
A typical day would include reading statements, considering exhibits and reviewing any digital media, such as CCTV. If I’m satisfied there is sufficient evidence to prosecute, I will charge the defendant. If not, I won’t or I may ask for further material.
Tell us about your Civil Service highlights and successes so far
I have been with CPS for around 16 years, and during this time I’ve been awarded North West Manager of the year in 2008, studied part time and became a lawyer, and been part of a CPS recruitment campaign in 2020.
Other career highlights include - two of my cases were recently covered by the BBC fraud squad and were aired on BBC 1. I was recently awarded a DPP Commendation for the work I undertook in partnership with the Anthony Walker Foundation. I work with young people from ethnic minorities and disadvantaged backgrounds to inspire them to break into the legal sector.
Tell us a bit about your team/colleagues
I am part of an amazing team and we work together to achieve justice. We often rely on each other and seek advice. While I believe in my own strengths, we can only move forward as a team.
What are your hobbies and how is your work/life balance?
My work/life balance is spot on. I had two very young children when I was studying part time. The CPS allowed me to take study leave during my exams, so my work, education and family life was balanced. I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies and seeing Liverpool FC smash other teams.
What makes you proud to be a Civil Servant?
I represent the Crown Prosecution Service and am proud to do so.
I am part of an organisation that caters for its people and offers great benefits.
I am part of an organisation that brings offenders to justice where possible.
I am part of an organisation that gives me 32 days annual leave days a year.
What advice can you give someone unsure about the Civil Service?
If you want a good work/ life balance, want to develop yourself and your career, want to earn a decent living and do your part for your community, then join the Civil Service.
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