Head of Fire Safety

Ark Workplace Risk (AWR) is the market leading provider of operational risk, compliance and safety solutions, and works with a prestigious and diverse range of over 500 clients. AWR is seeking a proactive and experienced Head of Fire to lead our Professional Services team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality fire safety services. This role involves overseeing the full range of fire safety consulting services provided by Ark, including fire risk assessments, fire strategies, compliance audits, and fire safety training programs. The Head of Fire will play a key role in maintaining Ark's reputation for excellence and in supporting clients to achieve the highest standards in fire safety compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the fire services strategy in line with Ark's core purpose and vision to drive business growth. Oversee the operational delivery of fire safety consulting services, ensuring they meet BAFE:SP205, industry standards and Ark's Gold Standard of service. Act as a senior advisor on fire safety regulations, advising the Director of Professional Services and leadership team on current industry best practices and changes in legislation.
• Service Delivery: Deliver and oversee an array of fire safety services, including fire risk assessments, fire strategies, compliance audits, and safety case report writing. Ensure all deliverables meet client-specific Service Level Agreements (SLAs), timelines, and quality expectations, consistently aiming to exceed client satisfaction. Conduct complex assessments as needed, especially for high-risk or unique client sites, providing expert guidance and recommendations to mitigate fire risks.
• Team Development and Mentorship: Lead and mentor the Fire Consultants, setting performance goals and conducting regular reviews and witnessed assessments to support career development. Work with the Professional Services Director to implement professional development plans for Fire Safety Consultants, upskilling staff in both technical and client engagement skills. Manage and drive the CPD program for Fire Safety Consultants, ensuring knowledge is current with changing legislation, standards, and technological advancements.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance: Oversee the Quality Assurance (QA) process for all fire safety reports, ensuring compliance with regulatory and company-specific standards, including BAFE:SP205. Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including report SLAs, quality benchmarks, and client satisfaction metrics, to ensure continuous improvement. Take responsibility for managing and resolving Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) to uphold Ark's commitment to excellence and client confidence.
• New Product Development: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and deliver new fire safety services and products, tailored to meet evolving client and regulatory needs. Drive innovation in fire safety service offerings, ensuring Ark stays ahead of industry developments and remains the partner of choice in risk and compliance.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a primary point of contact for key fire safety projects and queries. Liaise with stakeholders to ensure the continuous improvement of service delivery standards and foster a culture of collaboration and excellence. Represent Ark Workplace Risk at industry events and forums to enhance Ark's brand and influence within the fire safety sector.

Requirements

• Qualifications: Minimum of a level 4 fire safety qualification. Membership with recognized fire safety or engineering institutions, such as the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM), the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) or other relevant professional bodies.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a senior fire safety role, with proven experience in managing complex fire safety assessments and compliance projects. Demonstrable experience in leading and developing teams, with a track record of achieving and exceeding operational targets.
• Skills and Competencies: Extensive knowledge of UK fire safety legislation, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Building Safety Act 2022. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills. Ability to engage effectively with clients, manage expectations, and deliver excellence in all aspects of fire safety service provision.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• A collaborative and supportive work environment focused on achieving excellence in compliance, risk, and health & safety
• Working with our prestigious and diverse range of clients in the built environment, including residential and commercial.
• A wide range of benefits including Private Healthcare plan, 5% matched pension plan, 4x salary life cover, 25 days holiday with option to increase via salary sacrifice, and Perkpal - perks and reward program.
• Social events with your colleagues.
• Professional Membership reimbursement.

Ark Workplace Risk is committed to creating a safe and compliant environment for our clients. As our Head of Fire Safety, you will play a crucial role in delivering trusted compliance solutions and positioning Ark as a leader in fire safety. Apply today to be part of our mission in "Creating a Better World by Delivering Trusted Compliance Solutions."