Leadership changes announced by IFE for 2025–26
The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the appointment of James Lane CEng FIFireE as its new International President for 2025–26.
According to the IFE, Lane was elected by the Board of Trustee Directors to serve in the position, which includes representing the institution globally and engaging with international stakeholders.
Lane has more than 30 years of experience in the fire safety sector and has served on the IFE Board of Trustee Directors for six years.
He is also a member of the IFE Registrants Group, where he reviews and interviews prospective Chartered Engineer registrants.
Lane said: “It is a true privilege to serve as the International President of the IFE.
“On behalf of the institution, I extend sincere thanks to my predecessor, Trent, for his lasting contributions.
“His commitment to global collaboration has not only strengthened our international ties but also established a powerful legacy through the International President’s Technical Conference.
“I am inspired to build upon the strong foundation Trent has laid as we continue to drive the IFE forward.”
New president outlines focus on values and global engagement
Lane addressed members during the IFE’s recent Annual General Meeting, where he laid out his intended priorities for the year ahead.
He highlighted integrity, honesty and best practice as central values guiding his term in office.
Lane also noted his intent to promote the institution’s work and observe global fire safety activities supported by the IFE.
The institution said the role of International President is held in high regard, with responsibilities that include serving as the figurehead of the organisation and representing it at events worldwide.
Lane’s leadership will include both strategic promotion and direct engagement with professionals across international IFE branches.
Reintroduction of International President Elect position
The IFE confirmed that Mark Reilly CMIFireE has been appointed International President Elect.
The institution said this role has been reintroduced to increase leadership capacity within the presidential team and to ease transitions between presidential terms.
According to the IFE, Reilly has held multiple leadership roles within the organisation.
His past positions include Trustee Director for both the Australian and UK boards and leadership posts across the Australian Branch and International General Assembly.
The IFE said Reilly’s new appointment will provide additional support for Lane and strengthen the continuity of presidential duties.
Mark Reilly’s professional background and recognition
The IFE highlighted Reilly’s extensive career in emergency management and fire engineering.
In 2009, he was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal as part of the Australia Day Honours in recognition of his contribution to firefighter training and leadership.
Reilly’s academic credentials span multiple disciplines, including Public Sector Management, Emergency Management, Applied Leadership, Fire Engineering, Building Compliance and Fire Safety.
The IFE described him as a Companion Member and long-standing contributor to the institution’s international activities.
His background in executive governance and education aligns with the aims of the Presidential team to expand leadership influence and operational support.
Presidential team to support global collaboration
Lane and Reilly will work closely to oversee the IFE’s international activities and reinforce engagement with fire professionals across branches and regions.
The institution said the expansion of the leadership structure is intended to enhance both administrative continuity and the IFE’s international presence.
Their joint term aims to maintain the momentum of previous initiatives while developing strategies to support the IFE’s global objectives.
Further updates on their activities and plans will be shared through official IFE channels.
The institution invited members and stakeholders to engage with the new team and contribute to its ongoing development efforts.
IFE appoints James Lane as International President for 2025–26: Summary
James Lane has been appointed as the new International President of the IFE.
Lane was elected by the Board of Trustee Directors.
The IFE announced the appointment on its website.
Lane has over 30 years of experience in fire safety.
He has served on the IFE Board for six years.
He is a member of the IFE Registrants Group.
Lane said the role is a privilege and thanked his predecessor, Trent.
He plans to focus on honesty, integrity and best practice.
Lane addressed members at the IFE’s Annual General Meeting.
The IFE also named Mark Reilly as International President Elect.
Reilly has held leadership roles in the Australian Branch and IGA.
He received the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2009.
Reilly holds qualifications in fire engineering and governance.
The IFE said the President Elect role supports leadership continuity.
Lane and Reilly will work together to advance global collaboration.
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