At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital systems governance and delivery for emergency response and community protection.
- Company: Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, professional development, and an inclusive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public safety through digital transformation in a vital service.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification or equivalent experience in procurement and project management.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to equality, diversity, and community wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 48200 £ per year.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) is seeking a Critical Systems Manager to lead the governance and delivery of our essential digital infrastructure. This senior technical specialist role offers the chance to drive innovation, resilience, and compliance across systems that underpin emergency response and community protection.
About Us
WFRS plays a vital role in protecting communities across Warwickshire. We are committed to delivering modern, efficient, and secure digital services that support emergency operations and public safety. Join us and make a real difference.
What you’ll do
- Lead procurement and contract management for major WFRS digital systems, ensuring best value and service quality.
- Act as the single point of contact for suppliers and system integrators, managing performance and resolving issues.
- Maintain a forward‑looking roadmap for upgrades, licensing, and compliance.
- Horizon scan for emerging technologies and opportunities to improve interoperability and efficiency.
- Oversee digital risk and resilience, ensuring strategic alignment with NFCC standards and HMICFRS improvement plans.
- Provide governance and accountability for critical systems and digital infrastructure.
- Support major projects and deliver transformation initiatives using PRINCE2 and Agile methodologies.
What we’re looking for
Essential- Degree‑level qualification or equivalent experience.
- Proven experience in procurement and contract management, ideally in public sector or digital systems.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
- Project management expertise (PRINCE2, APM or similar).
- Ability to lead complex projects and matrix‑manage technical and administrative teams.
- Analytical thinking and independent decision‑making to deliver innovative solutions.
- Understanding of fire and rescue service operations.
What we offer
- Salary: Band N (£46,142 – £48,226)
- Workplace support and professional development opportunities
- Flexible, hybrid working arrangements
- Inclusive culture and commitment to equality, diversity, and wellbeing
- Opportunity to shape digital transformation in a vital public service
- Full time, 37 hours, fixed term for 2 years
Our Values
We live by the Fire Service Core Code of Ethics and Warwickshire DNA: putting communities first, acting with integrity, promoting equality and inclusion, and leading with resilience.
Critical Systems Manager – Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service in Royal Leamington Spa 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 Critical Systems Manager – Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service in Royal Leamington Spa
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in digital systems and emergency services. We want to show that we're not just qualified, but also passionate about making a difference in community safety.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our answers to common interview questions, especially around procurement and project management. We should be ready to share specific examples of how we've led projects or improved systems in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re genuinely interested in being part of the WFRS team.
We think you need these skills to ace Critical Systems Manager – Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service in Royal Leamington Spa
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in procurement and contract management, especially in digital systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Critical Systems Manager at WFRS.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills: Since project management expertise is essential, don’t forget to mention your experience with PRINCE2 or Agile methodologies. We love seeing examples of how you've led complex projects and managed teams effectively.
Engage with Our Values: We’re all about putting communities first and promoting equality and inclusion. Make sure your application reflects these values and demonstrates how you embody them in your professional life.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep track of your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Fire Chiefs Council Limited.
✨Know Your Digital Systems
Make sure you brush up on the latest digital systems relevant to emergency services. Understand how they work and their importance in ensuring public safety. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with project management methodologies like PRINCE2 or Agile. Prepare specific examples of projects you've led, focusing on how you managed teams and delivered results. This will demonstrate your capability to handle complex projects effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your stakeholder engagement skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully negotiated and managed relationships in previous roles. This is crucial for a position that involves procurement and contract management, so be ready to discuss your approach to building strong partnerships.
✨Stay Ahead of Emerging Technologies
Research current trends and emerging technologies in digital infrastructure, especially those related to fire and rescue services. Being able to discuss these topics will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive about improving systems and processes.