Job Summary
The Fire Chief will provide strategic and operational leadership for the fire and emergency services function, ensuring the safety of people, property and assets across the organisation’s sites. The role leads firefighting, prevention and emergency response, develops and maintains emergency plans, manages budgets and resources, and promotes a culture of safety, resilience and continuous improvement. The Fire Chief works closely with internal stakeholders, external emergency services and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and effective incident management.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Emergency Response
Lead and coordinate operational response to fires, alarms and other emergencies, ensuring incidents are managed effectively and safely
Develop and maintain incident command procedures, ensuring clear roles, responsibilities and escalation routes
Ensure resources, equipment and personnel are deployed appropriately during incidents and that after‑action reviews capture lessons learned
Fire Prevention & Risk Management
Oversee fire risk assessments, prevention programmes and corrective actions to reduce likelihood and impact of fire-related incidents
Advise on building design, fire detection, suppression systems and safe operating procedures to mitigate risk
Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of statutory fire safety requirements and ensure organisational compliance
Policy, Planning & Compliance
Develop, review and implement fire and emergency policies, plans and procedures aligned to statutory requirements and industry best practice
Prepare and maintain emergency response plans, business continuity interfaces and site evacuation strategies
Liaise with regulatory authorities, insurers and external emergency services to demonstrate compliance and manage inspections or audits
Training, Exercises & Community Engagement
Plan and deliver realistic training programmes, simulated exercises and joint drills with internal teams and external partners
Promote fire safety awareness across the organisation through campaigns, briefings and stakeholder engagement
Represent the organisation at community safety forums and multi‑agency planning meetings where required
Reporting & Continuous Improvement
Produce incident reports, performance metrics and management information to inform senior leadership and governance forums
Drive continuous improvement through analysis of incidents, near misses and audit findings
Implement changes to procedures and training to address identified gaps and improve resilience
Requirements
Education
Relevant professional qualifications in fire safety, fire engineering, emergency planning or a related discipline desirable
Experience
Substantial operational experience in fire and rescue services, emergency response units or a similar environment, including leadership roles
Proven experience of incident command, fire safety management and multi‑agency coordination
Experience of developing and implementing emergency plans, training programmes and safety initiatives
Technical Competencies
Strong understanding of fire legislation, statutory requirements and industry best practice
Competence in incident command systems, risk assessment methodologies and emergency planning
Ability to lead and develop operational teams, with excellent decision‑making under pressure
Good communication and stakeholder management skills for engagement with senior leaders, regulators and external agencies
Budgetary awareness, procurement experience and ability to manage equipment and fleet maintenance programmes
Professional development, training and progression opportunities
Competitive salary and benefits package, with commitment to work‑life balance and wellbeing