Alenka Korošec Peruzin, Director of the Koper Police Directorate – Slovenia
Full name: Alenka Korošec Peruzin
Organisation: Koper Police Directorate
Current positon: Director of the Koper Police Directorate
Career path:
I started as a police officer at the Kozina Police Station. Following my graduation from the Police College, I became a criminal investigator at the then Criminal Police Office of the Koper Police Directorate. After earning a degree in Human Resource Management, I assumed the role of Head of the Juvenile Crime Group at the Criminal Police Division of the Koper Police Directorate. Subsequently, I became Assistant Commander at the Jelšane Border Police Station. In 2020, I progressed to the position of Commander of the Police Station for Compensatory Measures in Koper, and last year, I took on the role of Director of the Koper Police Directorate.
Career advice for aspiring police officers:
Police work is dynamic, varied, team-oriented and full of challenges – far from monotonous. In this line of work, you and your colleagues become a close-knit blue family, always ready to help in times of need. The profession allows you to develop your skills across various areas, providing opportunities to specialise in fields that match your interests.
Pros of being a police officer:
Being a police officer provides the opportunity to work in a reliable organisation and acquire diverse skills. The job offers a never-ending flow of challenges for individuals who seek to enhance their capabilities and develop creative thinking. The salary is secure, and workers’ rights are regulated according to the law.
Cons of being a police officer:
Shift work and less favourable working hours are part of the reality. The job can also be stressful and potentially dangerous.
What I have learned during my time in the police force:
Above all, you have to act with integrity and be kind and respectful to your colleagues, who will be with you throughout your career. Professionalism, courtesy, and respect, along with a steadfast commitment to following the law, are of vital importance. As a police officer, you remain a representative of the force even during off-duty hours, so it is important to always uphold principles of ethics and integrity.
My thoughts on police work:
The profession is demanding, yet inspiring. Schooling and subsequent training equips you with all the necessary skills to perform the job. With the right mindset, everything is achievable, and working together with colleagues makes carrying out police tasks easier. You work in a team, constantly growing and learning throughout your career.
What gives me hope and inspiration with regard to police work:
The police operates in a structured hierarchy, and the rules are clearly outlined in the Police Rules, which police officers simply need to follow. In recent years, a lot of effort has been invested in prevention activities and promoting policing, which is beneficial for the organisation and the profession. This effort aims to bring the police closer to the community, recognising our primary mission of serving the people. I hope the profession becomes more appealing both to young people and the existing members of the force. Specifically, I hope that police officers find renewed enthusiasm and joy in carrying out their duties.
Proudest achievement of my life:
Throughout my career, I have experienced various aspects of the profession, gaining a full view of the organisation, the work, and my colleagues. This comprehensive perspective helps me to respond thoughtfully and wisely in different situations.
Equal opportunities:
In the police force, equal opportunities are available to everyone, but some individuals, particularly women in such predominantly male environment, may need to show extra professionalism and perseverance to achieve similar success in advancing their careers.
Personal time:
Outside of work, I spend time with my family, relatives, and friends. Occasionally, I also take moments for self-care and reflection.