Image Credit: London Fire Brigade
Commissioner Andy Roe announces intention to retire
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe has informed Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan of his decision to retire after serving five years in the role.
As reported by London Fire Brigade, Commissioner Roe expressed pride in leading the service during a transformative period: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead London Fire Brigade.
“When I became Commissioner, I inherited a service suffering from decades of under investment.”
He highlighted improvements in emergency response and organisational culture during his tenure.
The Greater London Authority (GLA) has commenced the process of selecting a successor.
The timeline for Commissioner Roe’s departure and the appointment of his replacement will be announced in due course.
Major achievements under Commissioner Andy Roe
Since assuming his role in January 2020, Commissioner Roe has overseen significant reforms, particularly in response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
London Fire Brigade (LFB) has implemented all 29 Phase One recommendations from the Inquiry, marking a major milestone.
Under his leadership, LFB introduced enhanced training in high-rise firefighting and emergency evacuations, deployed advanced equipment such as drones and turntable ladders, and improved its response to terrorist incidents.
These efforts were supported by the Brigade’s largest leadership development programme.
Improving culture within London Fire Brigade
Commissioner Roe prioritised cultural reform within LFB, commissioning an Independent Culture Review and introducing new organisational Values.
Measures included establishing a Professional Standards Unit and an independent reporting line for staff concerns.
The Brigade also engaged with communities through the creation of a Community Forum, which involved survivors of major incidents such as the Grenfell Tower fire.
This initiative aimed to improve LFB’s post-incident response and accountability.
Leading during challenging times
Commissioner Roe’s tenure began during the global pandemic, a period that presented unprecedented challenges.
LFB played a critical role in supporting London’s emergency services, with 500 firefighters seconded to the London Ambulance Service and millions of PPE items delivered to communities.
Reflecting on his time in the role, Commissioner Roe said: “I never imagined when I joined LFB 23 years ago as a firefighter that I would have the honour of serving as London Fire Commissioner. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved.”
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe retires after leading extensive reforms: Summary
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe has announced his retirement after five years in the role.
Since taking office in January 2020, Commissioner Roe has led London Fire Brigade (LFB) through significant reforms, particularly in response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
All 29 recommendations from Phase One of the Inquiry have been implemented, alongside enhanced training and new equipment deployment.
Cultural improvements included an Independent Culture Review, the introduction of new organisational Values, and measures to address racism, misogyny, and homophobia.
LFB also strengthened community engagement through a dedicated forum involving survivors of major incidents.
During the global pandemic, LFB supported London’s emergency services by seconding firefighters to the London Ambulance Service and delivering PPE.
Commissioner Roe described his tenure as “an honour and a privilege,” expressing confidence in the Brigade’s future trajectory.
The Greater London Authority has begun the process of appointing his successor.