Institution of Fire Engineers CEO Steve Hamm discusses their new strategy, highlighting its goals, global outreach and a unified approach to fire safety
Aiming to redefine its goals and worldwide impact across the global fire sector, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has launched a new strategy. With a renewed emphasis on enhancing its identity, pushing for inclusive and effective fire safety measures and leveraging education and data the professional body seeks to re-position itself during a new phase.
In this interview, IFE CEO, Steve Hamm, shares insights into the strategy, its core objectives and how it plans to drive meaningful change in fire safety practices worldwide.
What prompted the IFE to revisit and redefine its strategy at this time?
Following feedback from our members, the need for a strategy that reflected the diverse, global nature of our community was highlighted and this was a great moment for the IFE to redefine its mission. Our members represent variations of expertise across many parts of the world and they’ve been pivotal in helping Implement this strategy.
With various advances across the built environment, fire safety is constantly changing and it’s vital that we ensure the organisation could continue to lead and adapt to these changes, placing members and at the heart of our purpose.
One of the strategy’s key outcomes is a “unified identity.” What does this entail?
This ensures that the IFE remains a cohesive and reliable organisation, trusted by its members, volunteers and partners. From harmonising our global operations to strengthening our brand, the new strategy builds a shared vision that resonates across diverse regions and varied disciplines.
Wherever our members are based, they’ll be able to contribute to and benefit from the same standards of excellence.
How does the new strategy aim to enhance the IFE’s role in promoting fire safety on a global scale?
By leveraging the expertise and perspectives of the membership, we can address fire safety challenges. The strategy prioritises global influence and advocacy and is supported by a robust consultation with our branches, members and volunteers across the globe.
We’re advocating for improved safety standards, supporting innovation in fire safety practices and ensuring our professional qualifications and learning resources remain globally relevant.
Why is an inclusive approach to fire safety important to the IFE?
Inclusivity ensures that fire safety measures consider diverse perspectives and needs, from underrepresented groups in the fire safety profession to vulnerable populations impacted by fire risks. By prioritising inclusivity, we can encourage broader participation in the sector and this is essential to addressing global challenges effectively, ensuring fire safety practices are fair and equitable.
How will the IFE implement education and data to drive improvements in fire safety?
Education and data are foundational to driving meaningful change. We will provide members with cutting-edge resources, qualifications and professional development opportunities to equip them with the skills needed to navigate complex fire safety challenges. By harnessing data from our global network, we can identify trends, share insights and advocate for evidence-based solutions that elevate fire safety standards worldwide.
This evidence-based approach will inform policies, improve risk assessment methodologies and ultimately lead to better decision-making and safer communities.
What challenges do you anticipate in delivering this strategy and how does the IFE plan to address them?
Maintaining engagement across a global membership and addressing the rapid pace of change in fire has its challenges. To overcome these, we’ll rely on strong communication with our members. Regular updates, transparency and member involvement in decision-making will be key to addressing these hurdles.
How will members and partners of the IFE be involved in achieving the objectives laid out in the strategy?
Collaboration is the core of our approach to the launch and we’ll actively engage members and partners through various forums and consultations, ensuring their voices shape the initiatives laid out.
We plan to create more opportunities for members and partners to contribute directly through research, training, or advocacy; stakeholders are integral to the success of this.
This mission was shaped through the input of the membership through surveys and engagement workshops. The next steps will hold through collaborative projects, committees and feedback loops.
Looking ahead, what long-term impact do you hope this strategy will have on fire safety practices globally?
Ultimately, we’re here to save lives, protect property and enhance resilience in the face of fire-related risks and through building a stronger, more connected fire safety community, we can achieve lasting change.
Our hope is that the strategy establishes the IFE as a leading voice in global fire safety, driving innovation and excellence across the global fire sector. By equipping our members with the tools to influence fire safety practices and policies, we aim to enhance safety outcomes worldwide.