At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning, risk management, and organisational improvement for a vital community service.
- Company: Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to serving over 480,000 residents.
- Benefits: Relocation allowance, service vehicle, and flexible working arrangements.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a leadership role that shapes community safety and service excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience at a strategic level in complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is seeking an exceptional and forward‑thinking leader to take on the role of Head of Strategy, Risk & Improvement (Area Manager). This is a key strategic leadership position, responsible for shaping the Service’s approach to corporate planning, governance, risk management and organisational improvement, ensuring we deliver effective, accountable and high‑performance services to our communities.
About the Role
Reporting to the Assistant Chief Fire Officer, you will lead the development and delivery of the Service’s Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP), corporate strategy and policy framework. You will be responsible for overseeing strategic risk management, organisational performance, assurance and compliance, ensuring robust governance arrangements that support informed decision‑making and continuous improvement. This role includes leading on HMICFRS inspection readiness, audit and organisational response to external scrutiny, as well as building effective partnerships to support Service priorities. You will also contribute to the wider strategic leadership of the Service as a member of the Service Management Team and, as part of the Flexible Duty System, provide operational command and support incident response.
About You
We are looking for a credible and experienced leader who can demonstrate:
- Substantive Area Managers or competent substantive Group Managers ready to progress
- Strong experience of operating at a strategic level within a complex organisation
- A track record of leading, planning, governance, risk, assurance or organisational improvement
- Highly developed analytical and decision‑making skills, with the ability to provide clear strategic advice
- Experience of influencing senior stakeholders, partners and governance bodies
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to develop teams and drive performance
- Experience of incident command and operating effectively under pressure
About Us
We serve over 480,000 residents across a diverse rural and urban area, delivering a modern, responsive and community‑focused fire and rescue service. Governed by a Fire Authority made up of elected members from Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council, we are committed to strong governance, continuous improvement and delivering high‑quality services that put our communities first.
Additional Information
- A Service vehicle will be provided for operational and business use
- A relocation package is available
- You will be expected to work flexibly and operate from a defined base location
Indicative Timeline
- Closing date: Wednesday 24 June 2026
- Shortlisting: by end of June 2026
- Media Assessment: w/c 06 July 2026
- Stakeholder Panel: w/c 06 July 2026
- Final interviews: w/c 13 July 2026
How to Apply: For the full job description and to apply, visit: WMJobs | SFRS Applicants will be required to complete a full application and provide: 2 references, a copy of your last appraisal, completed Readiness for Promotion document and qualification certificates. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact: Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Marc Millward on marc.millward@shropshirefire.gov.uk or Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Mark Price on Mark.S.Price@shropshirefire.gov.uk
Important Applicants are advised to consider any potential pension Lifetime or Annual Allowance implications prior to applying. Further guidance is available from your pension provider.
Equal Opportunity Statement Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service have a strong commitment to equality diversity and inclusion at work. We want to reflect the communities we service and therefore we positively welcome applicants from disabled people and minority groups who are under‑represented in our Service.
Head of Strategy, Risk and Improvement (Area Manager B) in Shrewsbury employer: Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises community service and employee development. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we offer a supportive work culture where leaders can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Our benefits include a relocation allowance, access to a service vehicle, and opportunities for strategic leadership within a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement and high-quality service delivery.
Contact Details:
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Strategy, Risk and Improvement (Area Manager B) in Shrewsbury
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Strategy, Risk and Improvement (Area Manager B) in Shrewsbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
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✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
