At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dynamic team in emergency services management.
- Company: Join Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, a forward-thinking organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, and a provided car with personal use options.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must be a competent UK Local Authority Group Commander or above.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
Job Reference: HWFRS/TP/178/232
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Full time permanent
Working Hours: 42
Location: Worcester
Closing Date: 25/09/2026
Job Type: Management
Sector: Emergency Services
Business Unit: Response
Salary: Area Commander B in line with NJC Grey Book pay scales plus 20% flexi duty allowance and 9.6% supplement for working a locally agreed Area Commander rota pattern.
Location: Based at Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service HQ, Hindlip Park, Worcester, WR3 8SP
Contract: Full time, permanent plus pension and benefits including provided car with option for personal use, subject to taxation and mileage charges.
Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) is pleased to invite applications for the role of Assistant Director (Operational Area Commander aligned to the ‘grey’ book terms and conditions). HWFRS is a forward thinking and dynamic organisation looking for talented, positive and inspirational individuals to join our strategic team across locations stretching east to west from the Cotswolds to the mid-Wales border, and from the outskirts of Birmingham in the north, to the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the south – with the Malvern Hills AONB right at the heart of the two counties.
Our stations are crewed by a mix of Wholetime and On-Call Firefighters, supported by Fire Control and essential Support Staff. We attend over 8,000 incidents each year – including property and countryside fires, Road Traffic Collisions, flooding and water rescues, animal rescues and a range of other incidents, alongside our USAR and High Volume Pumping National Resilience capabilities aligned to our Response Strategy. We also deliver essential key Protection and Prevention services across both counties every day.
We are seeking to appoint an Assistant Director (Operational Area Commander) with the drive, enthusiasm and leadership capability required of a strategic leader in a modern fire service. The successful candidate will help us to deliver our core strategies and lead our workforce. We are looking for someone who can demonstrate they have the skills and abilities to deliver our strategic objectives, uphold and champion our core values, and lead others in a variety of environments.
About the role
The role will form part of our Strategic Leadership Board (SLB), providing strategic leadership and support to the Principal Officers in the overall coordination of the Service. This includes change management, staff development, delivery of organisational strategy and transformation, effective industrial relations and exploring opportunities for collaboration with partners to support efficiency and effectiveness. HWFRS strives to deliver organisational and operational excellence in everything it does, requiring all strategic leaders to champion our core values and constantly seek efficiency, effectiveness and accountability across our highly motivated workforce.
Eligibility to apply
- Be a competent UK Local Authority Group Commander or role above
- Be able to demonstrate previous or current competence at Levels 1, 2 & 3 command
- Pass a Level 3 Command Assessment if not already held
- Pass a Level 4 Command Assessment if not already held
- Be eligible to live and work in the UK without restrictions
- Have had an appraisal in the last 12 months, unless not applicable to your organisation
- Not have any live formal disciplinary sanctions or history of serious misconduct
- Should not have been dismissed by another Fire and Rescue Service on the grounds of serious misconduct or capability
- Must be able to pass all relevant and required vetting processes
- Not be in a formal capability process
- Be medically fit to undertake the role, and pass the medical and annual fitness test
- Hold a valid driving licence and be eligible to drive in the UK
- Must be able to pass an emergency response driving qualification
- Must have the ability to respond promptly within Herefordshire and Worcestershire
- Must be able to provide a residential base in or near the county borders, in a location acceptable to the Chief Fire Officer
- When rostered as ‘duty AC’, must be available for immediate operational response within the Service Area
- Must be able to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends, as required
- Should be available for recall to duty at any reasonable time
Selection process
Applicants will complete an online application form, including a statement evidencing your suitability, skills and qualifications for the role. Shortlisted applicants will then be asked to attend a selection stage comprising of strategic level assessments, a briefing exercise and an interview. Pre-employment checks will also be required including security clearance vetting (Non-Police Personnel Vetting (NPPV) Level 2 Abbreviated) and you may be required to pass advanced national vetting processes (for example SC level) as a requirement for the role. Successful candidates will be required to attend a conversion and induction training programme.
Further information
Interested candidates are welcome to meet or discuss the role with CFO Jonathon Pryce KFSM and arrange a visit to HWFRS. This can be arranged by emailing Lisa Colenutt at Lcolenutt@hwfire.org.uk. If you have any questions regarding the process or you are experiencing any difficulties with your application, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@hwfire.org.uk before the closing date.
Assistant Director (Operational Area Commander) in Worcester employer: Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community. With a strong focus on volunteer engagement, the organisation fosters a supportive work culture that encourages personal growth and development, while providing unique opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to enhancing community safety. Join us to gain valuable experience, build your confidence, and contribute to a safer environment for all.
Contact Details:
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director (Operational Area Commander) in Worcester
✨Get Some Hands-On Experience
If you're looking to land that full-time gig in emergency medical services, don't underestimate the power of hands-on experience! Volunteering with local ambulance services or first aid organisations can give you a great insight into the field and show potential employers you’re dedicated.
✨Connect with EMS Communities
Join local EMS associations or online groups where professionals chat about job opportunities and trends. These communities are goldmines for networking, and you might just overhear about openings at places like Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service that aren't even advertised yet!
✨Showcase Your Skills Through Certifications
Make sure you’re up to date with your certifications—CPR, first aid, and any relevant EMS training. Having these on your CV or mentioned in interviews can really set you apart from the crowd when applying for that full-time role.
✨Leverage Local Job Fairs
Don’t forget about job fairs, especially those focused on healthcare and emergency services. These events are perfect for meeting representatives from companies like Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service face-to-face and making a lasting impression. Plus, they often have a ton of insider info about the hiring process!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director (Operational Area Commander) in Worcester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In the emergency medical services world, certifications like EMT or Paramedic are crucial. Make sure to prominently display any relevant qualifications on your CV to show you’re qualified and ready to jump in.
Showcase Your Experience in High-Pressure Situations:This isn’t just about ticking boxes; we want to see how you’ve handled emergencies. Share specific examples from your past roles, focusing on your ability to stay calm and effective under pressure—this will really make your CV stand out!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for EMS. Share a brief story about why you got into this field and what drives you. This personal touch helps us connect with you beyond just your qualifications.
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication Skills:Being part of an EMS team means communication is key. Highlight your experiences working in teams, especially in stressful environments, and how you effectively communicate with both your team and patients. This will show us you can thrive in our fast-paced world.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service
✨Brush Up on Your Medical Knowledge
As we're stepping into the emergency medical services world, it's crucial to have a solid grasp on medical protocols and procedures. Expect to face scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills in high-pressure situations, so reviewing your medical textbooks or guidelines might just give you the edge!
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
In EMS, teamwork and communication can literally save lives. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated in past settings or during training exercises. They might throw in questions about managing stressful interactions with patients or colleagues, so highlighting your soft skills could really set you apart.
✨Familiarise Yourself With Local Protocols
Since you'll be serving the community, knowing the specific EMS protocols and guidelines of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is key. Research their operations and any recent changes they might have implemented. Demonstrating that you're well-informed about local practices shows your commitment and readiness to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Don't be surprised if your full-time interview includes a hands-on assessment. Practising skills like CPR, patient assessment, and using EMS technology will show you're ready for the rigours of the job. So gather your training materials and maybe even practice with a mate to simulate the scenario-based tests you might encounter.
