Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to deliver exceptional fire and rescue services.
- Company: Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous leave, wellbeing support, leadership coaching, and local discounts.
- Why this job: Shape the future of fire services in a stunning county with unique challenges.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in fire services and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment focused on innovation and community service.
The predicted salary is between 136163 - 136163 £ per year.
Location: Northumberland
Salary: £136,163 (Senior officer salaries are appointed to a specific spot point within the salary band, with no automatic incremental progression)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
About the Service
Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service is committed to protecting our communities, reducing risk, and delivering exceptional emergency response and prevention services. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of fire and rescue services in one of England’s diverse and challenging geographies.
About the Role
We are seeking an outstanding leader to join our Service as Deputy Chief Fire Officer. This is a pivotal role, supporting the Chief Fire Officer in shaping the strategic direction of the Service and ensuring operational excellence across all areas. Working as part of the Council’s Senior Leadership team, you will also work collaboratively to deliver the Council’s Corporate objectives and strategic priorities.
Responsibilities
- Provide visionary leadership and inspire teams to deliver high-quality services
- Drive continuous improvement and innovation in fire prevention, protection, and emergency response
- Work collaboratively with partners, stakeholders, and communities to enhance safety and resilience
- Ensure compliance with statutory responsibilities and maintain the highest standards of professionalism
About You
- Have a proven track record in operational command and strategic leadership within a Fire and Rescue Service
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build partnerships
- Be committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and passionate about serving our communities
- Can lead change effectively and foster a culture of learning and development
Benefits
- A county with stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and unique operational challenges.
- A supportive environment for innovation and transformation.
- Attractive benefits including generous annual leave, leadership coaching, employee wellbeing support for mental and physical health, corporate gym, local government discounts and salary sacrifice schemes.
Additional Requirements
The postholder will be required to provide a permanent base within the County of Northumberland to fulfil this commitment.
Contact Information
For further information or to discuss any aspect of the advertised role, contact Lynsey McVay, Interim Chief Fire Officer
Phone: 01670 621117
Email: Jillian.Grieves@northumberland.gov.uk
How to Apply
Candidates will be asked to submit a CV of no more than 3 pages and a personal statement (based on the Person Specification in the job description) of no more than 1000 words to Marie Curry, Talent Acquisition Manager: marie.curry@northumberland.gov.uk
Closing Date: 8th February 2026
Assessment Date: Assessment centered date: week commencing 23rd February 2026
Deputy Chief Fire Officer in North East employer: Networking Women in the Fire Service
Contact Detail:
Networking Women in the Fire Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Chief Fire Officer in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and expectations, plus it shows our genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching recent initiatives or challenges faced by the service. We want to demonstrate that we’re not just passionate but also informed about the specific needs of the community and how we can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our leadership stories! Think of examples where we’ve inspired teams or driven change. We need to showcase our strategic thinking and operational command skills, so let’s have those stories ready to go.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our CV and personal statement to highlight how we align with the values and objectives of the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Chief Fire Officer in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your leadership experience and operational command in fire services. Keep it concise, no more than 3 pages, and tailor it to showcase how you meet the job requirements.
Nail the Personal Statement: This is your chance to shine! Use the personal statement to demonstrate your passion for community service and your commitment to equality and diversity. Stick to the 1000-word limit and ensure you address the Person Specification directly.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We want to see how you inspire teams and drive innovation. Share specific examples of how you've led change and improved services in your previous roles. This will help us understand your approach to leadership and operational excellence.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your documents and ensures you’re following the correct process. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Networking Women in the Fire Service
✨Know Your Service Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly research Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Chief Fire Officer, leadership is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or driven change. Be ready to discuss how you inspire others and foster a culture of learning and development.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your operational command and strategic thinking. Think of scenarios you might face in this role and how you would handle them. Practising these responses can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Community Engagement
Highlight your experience working with partners and communities. Discuss how you've built relationships and enhanced safety and resilience in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to serving the community and working collaboratively.
