At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service for community safety and excellence.
- Company: Progressive fire service dedicated to innovation and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a team committed to equality, diversity, and community engagement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fire services and empower a diverse workforce.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in complex organisations with a focus on improvement and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the UK’s most progressive and ambitious Fire & Rescue Services at a pivotal moment in its journey. Serving more than 800,000 residents across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service (BFRS) is seeking an exceptional Chief Fire Officer / Chief Executive to lead our organisation through its next phase of transformation, innovation and service excellence.
Recent HMICFRS inspections have recognised the significant progress we have made, identifying no causes of concern, no recommendations, and highlighting our Leadership and Behaviour Framework as innovative practice. Yet our ambition remains undiminished. We are determined to build an even stronger culture, deliver outstanding services and ensure every member of our workforce feels valued, respected and empowered to succeed.
Reporting directly to Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes Fire Authority, you will provide visible, values-led leadership to an organisation of approximately 500 employees, with strategic oversight of a £43.9m revenue budget and a £22.6m capital programme. As the Authority’s principal strategic adviser, you will guide the Service through an increasingly complex environment shaped by evolving community risks, financial pressures, technological change and growing public expectations.
We are looking for a leader who combines strategic insight with humility, integrity and authenticity. You will have a proven track record of leading large, complex and politically accountable organisations, driving organisational improvement, cultural change and high performance. Most importantly, you will genuinely believe in the potential of people, creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, contribute and deliver exceptional outcomes for the communities we serve.
You will bring the credibility to influence across government, regulators, elected members, partners and communities; the resilience to lead through challenge and uncertainty; and the vision to ensure BFRS remains at the forefront of modern public service leadership.
We welcome applications from outstanding leaders within the fire and rescue sector and will also consider candidates who can demonstrate equivalent executive leadership experience within highly regulated, operationally critical and publicly accountable environments.
Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We are an equal opportunity employer. If there are any adaptions or adjustments, we can make to help you in your application, or with our recruitment process, please do let us know.
Contract type: Full-Time
Chief Fire Officer/ Chief Executive – Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in England employer: National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
West Midlands Fire Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its employees. With a strong commitment to inclusive workplace practices, we offer a supportive work culture that encourages personal and professional growth. Our focus on innovative reward and recognition strategies ensures that every team member feels valued and motivated, making WMFS a truly rewarding place to work.
Contact Details:
National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Fire Officer/ Chief Executive – Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in England
✨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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. 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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited..
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Fire Officer/ Chief Executive – Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in England
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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. 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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited. 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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
✨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 National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
