Group Manager 2026

Group Manager 2026

Full-Time 49500 - 60500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to deliver exceptional fire and rescue services.
  • Company: Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and engagement.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development.
  • Other info: Join a forward-thinking team committed to inclusion and continuous improvement.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while shaping the future of public safety.
  • Qualifications: Must be a competent Station Manager with strong leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is a bold forward-thinking Authority looking for highly capable and values driven individuals for the role of Group Manager. This is an exciting opportunity for competent Station Managers to progress into a pivotal leadership role, helping shape the future of our Service while making a real difference to the communities we serve.

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate exceptional leadership, inspire outstanding performance, lead change, and embody the Service's values, Leadership Behaviours and Core Code of Ethics.

As a Group Manager, you will:

  • Lead people, functions and service delivery across a range of operational and strategic responsibilities.
  • Contribute to the achievement of Service priorities and organisational objectives.
  • Develop collaborative partnerships internally and externally.
  • Lead and support operational incidents in accordance with national and local standards.
  • Champion a culture of inclusion, wellbeing, high performance and continuous improvement.

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service is an excellent place to work, but don't just take our word for it; we would encourage you to spend some time with us to learn a little more about us, what's important to us and how we do things. The candidate pack, available as a supporting document should provide you with a good foundation, with lots of information and links to pertinent documents to help you get to know us much better.

ELIGIBILITY

Candidates must be competent in the Station Manager (Leading the Function) role. Candidates who are not currently employed by a Local Authority Fire & Rescue Service within the UK will not be eligible to apply. Candidates who have a live/unspent disciplinary sanction or who are currently working under any capability (performance) related improvement note/plan will not be eligible to apply.

KEY DATES

The Application Stage closes at midnight, Sunday 23rd August. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a multi-stage selection process including Command Assessment, Assessment Centre and final Interview Stage. These stages will take place through September 2026.

About Us

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is at the forefront of public safety and emergency response, serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside with dedication and professionalism. Our mission is to protect, prevent, and respond-ensuring the safety and well-being of the public, both in times of crisis and through proactive community engagement. With a proud history and a strong sense of purpose, we operate across a diverse region that includes bustling urban centers, industrial hubs, and serene rural areas. Our highly skilled and committed teams work tirelessly to provide fire and rescue services, enforce fire safety regulations, and deliver critical prevention and education programs.

PENSION CONSIDERATIONS

Annual Allowance
Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Annual Allowance implications. A breach in the Annual Allowance threshold could result in a Tax charge. Further information on Annual Allowance can be obtained from the Pensions team, or the Pension Administrator website (Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd - website - lppapensions.co.uk, Annual Allowance Information - Annual Allowance)

Lifetime Allowance
Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Lifetime Allowance implications. A breach in the Lifetime Allowance threshold will result in a Tax charge. Further information on Lifetime Allowance can be obtained from our Pensions team, or the Pension Administrator website (Local Pensions Partnership Administration Ltd - website - lppapensions.co.uk, Lifetime Allowance Information - Lifetime Allowance)

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service's recruitment and selection procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Adults, Children and Young People and all staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

Group Manager 2026 employer: Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises leadership, community engagement, and employee wellbeing. With a strong commitment to inclusion and continuous improvement, we offer our Group Managers the opportunity to lead impactful change while developing their skills in a supportive environment. Join us in making a real difference in the vibrant communities of Merseyside, where your contributions will be valued and recognised.

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Contact Details:

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Group Manager 2026

Get Involved with Local Fire Services

Join community groups or volunteer with local fire departments to get a foot in the door. It’s a great way to showcase your commitment to fire safety and emergency services while also making valuable connections in the field.

Attend Firefighting Job Fairs

Keep an eye out for firefighting job fairs and emergency services recruiting events in your area. These are goldmines for meeting staff from companies like Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency services, giving you a chance to chat and make a lasting impression.

Connect with Industry Professionals Online

Utilise platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find fire service groups and forums. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can elevate your profile and help us to learn from those already in the field, potentially leading to job openings.

Keep Your Training Up-to-Date

Make sure your qualifications are current! Pursuing additional training, like first aid or specialised firefighting courses, shows your dedication and might just set you apart from the crowd when applying for roles at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

We think you need these skills to ace Group Manager 2026

Leadership
Operational Management
Strategic Planning
Collaboration
Incident Management
Change Management
Performance Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Commitment to Safety:In the fire and emergency services sector, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of safety protocols and emergency response challenges. Mention any relevant training or certifications you've completed, like First Aid or Fire Safety courses, and highlight your commitment to public safety in your cover letter.

Highlight Your Teamwork Skills:This field is all about collaboration! Make sure your CV emphasises your ability to work in a team under pressure. Detail examples of teamwork from previous roles, volunteer work or community involvement. Hiring managers at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service will love to see how you thrive in a group dynamic.

Detail Your Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, don't just mention your job titles – dig into your responsibilities and achievements that relate specifically to fire and emergency services. Include any volunteer work, internships, or projects that display your hands-on experience in this field, especially if you're transitioning from another area.

Craft a Strong Motivation Statement:As you're applying for a full-time role, it’s key to articulate why you want to join Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service specifically. Dive into your motivation for working in fire services, and how this aligns with your career goals. We want to see your passion for contributing to the community and the impact you wish to make!

How to prepare for a job interview at Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service

Know Your Emergency Protocols

Since you're eyeing a role in fire emergency services, brush up on the latest firefighting techniques and protocols. Understanding the fundamentals of fire behaviour, rescue operations, and safety measures will show that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.

Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

Expect situational questions that test your ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure scenarios. Think of examples from your previous experiences or training where you had to think on your feet—this will really highlight your suitability for the role and show that you can handle real emergencies.

Highlight Teamwork and Community Engagement

Fire emergency services rely heavily on teamwork, so come prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in stressful situations. Additionally, showcase any community involvement or outreach you've done—it's a great way to demonstrate your commitment to public safety and your understanding of community dynamics.

Be Ready to Discuss Your Training

Make sure you’re ready to talk about any relevant training or certifications you have. Whether it’s emergency response training or a first aid qualification, make it clear how these experiences prepare you for a full-time position in fire emergency services with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!