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- Tasks: Lead and innovate in fire and rescue services to ensure community safety.
- Company: County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, a trusted community partner.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fire services and drive positive change in your community.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience, relevant degree, and Fire Service Incident Command Level 4.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team committed to diversity and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an ambitious, visionary leader ready to shape the future of fire and rescue services? County Durham and Darlington Combined Fire Authority is seeking an exceptional individual to join our leadership team as Deputy Chief Fire Officer. We are looking for someone who can deliver a professional, innovative, and high‑performing service, ensure the safety and wellbeing of our communities while meeting all statutory and legal responsibilities.
This is a unique opportunity to influence the future direction of a service that is proud to be recognised as high performing, forward‑thinking, and trusted by the communities we serve. Our vision is clear: “Safest People, Safest Places.” To achieve this, we need a leader who can drive transformation, embrace innovation, and work collaboratively with partners during a period of financial challenge for public services.
Your ability to lead change, inspire confidence, and maintain excellence will help us stand out and continue delivering outstanding services. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of senior leadership and delivering organisational change in complex, political, and unionised environments. Someone with strong skills in strategic planning, resource management, and decision‑making, with the resilience and creativity to navigate competing priorities.
Has a leadership style that is inclusive, engaging, and committed to diversity, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Applicants must have experience at a senior executive level, have a relevant degree (postgraduate) appropriate to the post and have completed a MAGIC course. You should be qualified to and operating at Fire Service Incident Command Level 4 to take an active role in the Executive rota.
If you have the vision, resilience, and leadership skills to shape the future of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, we want to hear from you. This is your opportunity to make a real difference, driving innovation, delivering excellence, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our communities.
For informal discussions only, prior to the application deadline, please contact Chief Fire Officer, Steve Helps, on 030300 32929. The deadline for applications is 0900 hours on 6 February 2026. Assessment Centre: 13 February 2026. Final Interview: 19 February 2026.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer – County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service employer: National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
Contact Detail:
National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Chief Fire Officer – County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of the County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service. They can give you insider info on the culture and what it takes to succeed in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the assessment centre! Brush up on your strategic planning and decision-making skills. Think about how you can demonstrate your leadership style and ability to drive change during the exercises.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your vision! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you would shape the future of the service. Bring examples of past successes in leading transformation and fostering collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Chief Fire Officer – County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Leadership Style: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your leadership style. We want to see how you engage and inspire others, especially in challenging environments. Use examples that showcase your inclusive approach and commitment to diversity.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your qualifications; tell us how your experience aligns with the role. We’re looking for someone with a proven track record in senior leadership and organisational change, so share specific achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
Emphasise Innovation and Transformation: We’re all about driving change and embracing new ideas. In your application, discuss how you've successfully implemented innovative solutions in the past. Show us your vision for the future of fire and rescue services and how you plan to achieve it.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready for the modern challenges we face!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to really understand the vision of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their goal of 'Safest People, Safest Places' and how you can contribute to driving transformation and innovation.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your proven track record in senior leadership roles, especially in complex environments. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges, delivered organisational change, and worked collaboratively with partners. This will demonstrate your capability to meet the demands of the role.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Collaboration
Given the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, be ready to discuss your approach to inclusive leadership. Share examples of how you've engaged diverse teams and built trust within your organisation, as this will resonate well with their values.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making and resource management skills. Think about potential challenges the service might face and how you would address them. This will show your strategic planning abilities and resilience in navigating competing priorities.
