Fire Chief - Emergency Response

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