FECA and Fire and Emergency New Zealand settle leadership contract

by Breaking News

New Zealand agreement covers leadership roles

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has confirmed a new collective employment agreement with the Fire and Emergency Commanders Association (FECA), covering operational firefighting management, District Commanders, Assistant District Commanders and senior specialist positions.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said FECA members ratified the agreement on 2 March 2026 after 14 days of negotiations and an Offer to Settle made on 23 February 2026.

The agreement was presented as applying to leadership roles across operational command and specialist functions.

Fire and Emergency Chief Executive Kerry Gregory said: “This agreement is about strengthening leadership across Fire and Emergency so we can deliver the best possible outcomes for our communities.

“Securing a new agreement is critical to our leadership capability, operational stability, and our ability to deliver on our strategic direction and organisational change objectives.

“Just as importantly, it ensures our frontline leaders are aligned, supported, and empowered to perform at their best.

“It is an important milestone to have this contract settled, as it builds on the progress we made last September when we signed a Strategic Relationship Agreement with the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA), who represent more than 650 volunteer brigades across the country.”

FECA backs relationship and change measures

Fire and Emergency New Zealand said the agreement formalises FECA’s support for key leadership and cultural change initiatives and reinforces relationships with volunteers.

FECA President Geoff Purcell said: “Our members command, lead, manage and support paid and volunteer firefighters across the motu.

“This agreement acknowledges their professionalism, their national responsibilities, and their commitment to serving communities.

“We’re particularly pleased to see the Strategic Relationship Panel formalised, providing a structured and collaborative forum where operational leaders can work closely with Fire and Emergency on issues that matter most.”

Gregory thanked FECA for what he described as a constructive approach to the settlement and said the agreement allows the organisation to focus on protecting people, the environment and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

HMICFRS outlines updated inspection programme for fire and rescue services covering 2025 to 2027 cycle

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Inspection programme announced for fire and rescue services

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has announced its latest fire and rescue service inspection programme, covering the inspection cycle from 2025 to 2027.

HMICFRS said the programme operates on a two-year cycle, which is the time required to inspect each of the 44 fire and rescue services in England.

The inspectorate gathers evidence throughout the cycle using a range of methods to help make sure the inspection programme reflects changes in fire and rescue and lessons learned from previous inspections.

This process also enables inspectors to examine challenges affecting services and adjust inspection priorities accordingly.

Updated inspection areas include leadership and governance

The updated inspection programme retains changes introduced in the previous cycle and introduces additional areas of focus, HMICFRS said.

It said there will be a greater emphasis on leadership across fire and rescue services, including leadership at every level.

Inspectors will assess Fire and Rescue Authorities’ governance, oversight and scrutiny of their services, including how efficiently services manage projects such as rebuilding or relocating fire stations.

The programme will also apply deeper scrutiny to values, culture and misconduct, building on thematic work examining how misconduct is identified and handled.

Inspectors will assess how services support community resilience, including their work with local communities to prevent fires.

Assessment framework and grading structure

HMICFRS said the inspection programme is a regular assessment of fire and rescue services in England, examining effectiveness, efficiency and how well services look after their people.

Services are assessed against ten core questions covering management of risk, prevention, regulation, response to emergencies and multi-agency incidents, resources, workplace culture, development, fairness and diversity and leadership.

Each area is graded as outstanding, good, adequate, requires improvement or inadequate.

Roy Wilsher, His Majesty’s Inspector of Fire & Rescue, said: “Our inspection programme must evolve to reflect the challenges facing fire and rescue services.

“The changes we have made for this cycle build on what we have learned from previous inspections and focus on the areas where we know improvement is most needed, including governance, leadership and community resilience.

“Our aim is to provide independent, evidence-based assessments that support services to improve and help keep the public safe.”

Johnson Controls appoints Susan Hughes as Asia Pacific president

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Johnson Controls appoints Asia Pacific president

Johnson Controls has appointed Susan Hughes as vice president and president, Asia Pacific.

The appointment was announced in a Johnson Controls statement dated 26 January 2026.

Hughes will report to chief executive officer Joakim Weidemanis and join the company’s executive committee.

She succeeds Anu Rathninde, who will depart Johnson Controls at the end of February.

Background and executive comments

Weidemanis said: “As we continue to operationalize our enterprise strategy, the Asia Pacific region represents a significant growth opportunity,”

“With her deep expertise in the region and strong record of leading teams, operations and customer engagement, across the region, Susan is well positioned to strengthen our execution, deliver even greater value for our customers, enable our people to do so and ultimately accelerate growth.

“I want to thank Anu for his dedication and contributions to Johnson Controls over the last few years and wish him well.”

Hughes brings operating experience across sales, marketing, service, engineering and manufacturing.

She spent 20 years at Emerson, holding leadership roles across multiple businesses in the Asia Pacific region.

She most recently served as President of Asia Pacific for Emerson Automation Solutions.

She delivered sustained growth across markets in the region through commercial execution and lifecycle services.

Hughes holds an MBA from Washington University’s Olin School of Business.

She also holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Mandarin Chinese from Grinnell College.

The statement also noted she is conversant in English and Mandarin Chinese.

FEU Leadership Conference to unite European fire leaders at Interschutz 2026 in Germany

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FEU Leadership Conference to run at Interschutz

The Federation of European Fire Officers will host the inaugural FEU Leadership Conference on 3–4 June 2026 at Interschutz in Hannover, Germany.

According to the organisation, more than 300 senior leaders from fire and civil protection agencies across Europe and international partner nations are expected to attend.

The event will run under the theme Safeguarding Tomorrow and will focus on strategic leadership under hybrid threats, geopolitical instability, digital risks and climate-driven emergencies.

Stephan Wevers of the Federation of European Fire Officers said: “It is my pleasure to invite you to the FEU Leadership Conference, to be held on 3–4 June 2026 during Interschutz in Hannover, Germany.

“With this first edition, our ambition is to build Europe’s premier strategic platform for the leaders who shape the future of our fire and civil protection services.”

Wevers stated: “Across the world, we face a convergence of pressures such as hybrid threats, geopolitical instability, digital vulnerability, extreme climate events, and rising expectations from our citizens.

“The need for clear-headed, future-oriented leadership has never been greater.”

Day one to examine strategy and security

The Federation of European Fire Officers said day one of the FEU Leadership Conference will focus on global strategy and security.

Sessions will examine Europe’s readiness in a volatile geopolitical environment and the role of fire and rescue services in wider security structures.

Planned contributors for the first day include EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, NATO leadership, senior representatives from Ukraine’s State Fire Service and the Director General of the Estonian Rescue Board.

According to the programme overview, discussions will cover how national systems are adapting to emerging risks and how cross-border coordination can be strengthened.

Keynote sessions, high-level dialogues and peer-to-peer exchanges are planned across the day.

Climate, innovation and leadership on day two

The Federation of European Fire Officers confirmed that the second day will focus on climate, innovation and leadership.

Topics on day two include Europe’s climate preparedness, operational lessons from major wildfires, approaches to cross-border response, workforce development and leadership through disruption.

Speakers listed for this day include representatives from the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, Dutch and Australian wildfire specialists, leadership researcher Ritika Radwa, London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith and Singapore Civil Defence Force Commissioner Eric Yap.

The Federation of European Fire Officers stated that the sessions will look at the technologies, alliances and leadership approaches needed to operate in a rapidly changing risk environment.

Across both days, the programme will also include sponsor briefings and contributions from agencies involved in shaping policy and operational practice.

Delegate package and practical details

The Federation of European Fire Officers outlined a delegate package that combines conference access with Interschutz opportunities.

Participation includes two full days of conference sessions.

Delegates also receive one-week access to Interschutz with VIP Lounge entry and a guided VIP tour hosted by Interschutz.

The package includes a VIP FEU Dinner on 3 June with senior European and international representatives.

The Federation of European Fire Officers has reserved hotel options near the venue for participants.

Optional attendance at Exhibitors’ Night is also available to delegates.

Wevers said: “We encourage organizations to secure participation early due to expected high demand.”

The organisation stated that Early Bird tickets are available until 15 January 2026 and that registration is now open.

Invitation to senior fire and civil protection leaders

The Federation of European Fire Officers stated that the conference is aimed at fire chiefs, senior officers, directors and policymakers.

The organisation said the event is for leaders responsible for capability development, preparedness, international cooperation, climate resilience and strategic planning within fire and civil protection systems.

In his message to potential delegates, Wevers said: “It is our shared responsibility to shape the strategic direction of our sector at a time when Europe’s resilience is being tested on multiple fronts.”

“Review the programme. Secure your Early Bird tickets. Share this invitation across your national networks. Your voice and leadership matter.

“I look forward to welcoming you in Hannover and working together to strengthen the resilience of world’s fire and rescue services.”

The Federation of European Fire Officers advised that further information and assistance are available via leadershipconference@f-e-u.org.

How this conference could shape senior leadership planning

The FEU Leadership Conference brings together fire chiefs, senior officers, directors and policymakers who oversee strategy and capability development within fire and civil protection systems.

For these groups, the focus on hybrid threats, geopolitical instability, digital vulnerability and climate-driven emergencies provides structured input for long-term risk planning and service design.

Sessions involving the European Commission, NATO and national agencies give senior leaders a shared frame of reference when aligning national strategies with wider European security and resilience objectives.

Programme elements on workforce development and leadership through disruption are directly connected to those responsible for organisational change and talent planning in fire and rescue services.

Operational insights from international wildfire specialists and chiefs, including from LA County Fire Department, are of practical interest to emergency and disaster response managers dealing with climate-related incidents.

The combination of keynotes, dialogues and peer exchange supports senior leaders who are reviewing cooperation models, cross-border response arrangements and future investment priorities.

DAS Fire confirms senior appointments to support data centre fire safety

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionPeople

Leadership appointments at DAS Fire

DAS Fire has announced a series of leadership changes in December 2025 as it continues to support fire detection and suppression projects for the data centre sector from its base in Reading, UK.

The company confirmed that Dave Parry has taken on the role of Managing Director with responsibility for guiding ongoing expansion.

He brings experience in leadership roles and is expected to focus on maintaining technically robust solutions and customer service.

DAS Fire stated that these appointments mark a new phase in the company’s development.

Claire Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Group, said: “These changes represent an important step forward for DAS Fire, we are deeply grateful to Stuart for his leadership and lasting contributions.

“We are deeply grateful to Stuart for his leadership and lasting contributions.

“With Dave’s experience and Paul’s continued dedication, we are well-positioned to build on our strong foundation and deliver the innovation, reliability, and service that our clients have come to expect.”

The company reiterated its commitment to delivering advanced, client-focused solutions and to maintaining high standards of quality, safety and customer satisfaction.

Stuart Parker to support DAS Fire as consultant

According to DAS Fire, long-serving leader Stuart Parker will step back from day-to-day responsibilities.

He will continue to work with the business in a consulting capacity.

The company said this arrangement allows DAS Fire to retain his detailed knowledge of the organisation and the sectors it serves.

His ongoing involvement is intended to provide continuity for existing projects and customers.

DAS Fire highlighted his long-standing commitment to the business and its growth.

Executive director role focused on customer engagement

DAS Fire confirmed that Paul Darke has assumed the role of Executive Director.

In this position he will continue to lead customer engagement activities.

He will also be responsible for commercial partnerships with organisations that work with DAS Fire.

The company said this role is central to maintaining its reputation for service and technical expertise.

DAS Fire added that the leadership structure is designed to support its work in the data centre sector.

How DAS Fire leadership changes relate to safety-focused clients

DAS Fire supplies fire detection and suppression services to the data centre sector, so leadership continuity is closely tied to how projects are delivered and supported.

The appointment of Dave Parry as Managing Director defines who will oversee the company’s expansion, technical delivery and customer service priorities.

The continued involvement of Stuart Parker in a consulting capacity means existing relationships and operational knowledge remain accessible to ongoing projects.

For customer-facing work, the Executive Director role held by Paul Darke clarifies who leads engagement on commercial partnerships and client service.

These developments are directly relevant for data centre facility managers who rely on fire-detection and suppression partners, and for system installers and fire-protection contractors who integrate such solutions.

Clear leadership responsibilities at DAS Fire can help these stakeholders understand decision-making routes, technical escalation paths and who to contact for planning and future upgrades.

E&B Fire appoints Simon Parr as Operations Director

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Why E&B Fire’s latest appointment could shape its future growth

E&B Fire has announced the appointment of Simon Parr as Operations Director to guide its expanding team and uphold high standards of customer care.

According to the company, the appointment reflects a focus on maintaining quality as the business continues to grow in the life safety and security sector.

Parr brings over twenty years of experience in the fire and security industry, having held both operational and management roles across teams, projects and contracts.

The firm said his practical background, focus on people and commitment to process improvement made him a strong addition to its leadership team.

Focus on quality and team development

Simon Parr, Operations Director at E&B Fire, said: “What stood out to me about E&B Fire is the way it combines technical knowledge with teamwork and a genuine focus on customer care.

“It also allows me to work alongside a skilled team that values both service and performance.

“My aim is to support the team, build on the strong foundation already in place and help make sure our operations develop alongside the growth of the business.

“I want to create an environment where people can succeed and where quality remains at the centre of everything we do.”

In his new role, Parr will oversee day-to-day operations, working closely with teams across the company to ensure projects run smoothly from design through to completion.

He will also help shape operational strategy, apprenticeship opportunities and the development of skilled talent.

Strengthening leadership foundations

E&B Fire said Parr will support new initiatives that improve efficiency, training and long-term sustainability.

Luke Stuart-Evans, Co-Director at E&B Fire, said: “Simon brings the right experience and approach to our team.

“As we grow, it’s important that our operations remain strong and consistent to maintain customer excellence, and Simon will play a key role in ensuring this happens.

“His focus on people and practical knowledge fits well with how we work, and I know he will help us continue building a capable, reliable team for the future.”

Andy Brooks, Co-Director at E&B Fire, added: “Simon’s appointment reinforces the leadership foundations Luke and I have built.

“We want to make sure our growth is backed by strong operational oversight and the same principles of quality and reliability that define how we work.”

Operational leadership and industry relevance

The appointment of an Operations Director highlights how E&B Fire is prioritising structured growth, operational consistency and workforce development across its projects in life safety and security.

For fire-protection contractors and system installers, the focus on training and apprenticeships reflects continued investment in skills pipelines across the sector.

Facility managers and project leads may also view this as a sign of strengthened delivery frameworks, particularly in ensuring installation and maintenance processes remain reliable as the business scales.

E&B Fire’s leadership expansion points to a wider industry trend of formalising operational governance to meet increasing safety and compliance expectations.

IAFC begins search for new Chief Executive Officer to guide future direction

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IAFC begins search for new Chief Executive Officer

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has announced the start of its recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

According to the organisation, the role will lead the IAFC through a period of transformative change while advancing its mission to lead, educate and serve the fire and emergency services community.

Applications are open to qualified individuals and to those recommending potential candidates.

The IAFC said the position is based in the greater Washington DC area and requires on-site presence.

The CEO will work closely with the President of the Board of Directors and other senior leaders to oversee all aspects of IAFC operations.

Role and responsibilities

According to the job description, the CEO will be responsible for business operations, strategic planning, personnel management, financial oversight and public engagement.

Responsibilities include executing strategic direction, approving business plans, formulating policies and maintaining relationships with federal agencies and partner organisations.

The CEO will also act as a public spokesperson for the organisation and will represent the IAFC in collaboration with allied and international associations.

The IAFC stated that the role includes extensive travel commitments, including international trips that may exceed 50% of total time.

The successful candidate will ensure the organisation’s activities reflect its mission, vision and values in all daily operations.

Required experience and qualifications

The IAFC has outlined detailed requirements for applicants, including a bachelor’s degree in non-profit management, public administration, business or a related field.

A master’s degree or professional designation such as CAE, CFOD, SPHR or PMP is preferred.

Applicants must have at least 20 years of experience, including a minimum of 10 years in a senior leadership position within a non-profit or public organisation.

Previous experience as a chief executive or senior leader in a professional association is considered advantageous.

The IAFC noted that the role requires strong leadership, analytical and communication skills, with demonstrated success in building high-performing teams.

Candidates should also show a commitment to continuous learning, technological proficiency and effective public relations.

The IAFC added that applications can be submitted via the recruitment partner Truity Partners using the reference number 41698.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This leadership transition is relevant for senior fire and rescue officers, association members, training institutions and policy advisors involved in emergency service governance.

The IAFC plays a major role in shaping standards, leadership development and international cooperation across the sector, and its new CEO will influence the strategic direction of those efforts.

The position’s emphasis on operational oversight, government engagement and educational outcomes could have practical implications for collaboration between departments and associations globally.

State of fire and rescue assessment calls for decisive government action on reform

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HMICFRS report details progress and persistent issues in state of fire and rescue 2024–25

His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has said that England’s fire and rescue services are improving but are being held back by unresolved issues in leadership, culture and reform.

The findings were published on Wednesday 5 November 2025 in the report State of Fire and Rescue: The Annual Assessment of Fire and Rescue Services in England 2024–25.

It is Sir Andy Cooke’s third annual assessment under section 28B of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004, and his first since the new Government took office in July 2024.

The report is based on inspection results from February 2023 to August 2025 and gives an overall view of the effectiveness and efficiency of services across England.

Speaking at the annual Chiefs and Chairs event hosted by HMICFRS, Sir Andy told attendees including Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy Samantha Dixon that the Government must now “increase the momentum behind long-awaited reform.”

Read: IFSJ breaks down State of Fire and Rescue: The Annual Assessment of Fire and Rescue Services in England 2024–25.

Inspector praises gains in productivity and protection

Sir Andy welcomed improvements in protection departments and said that most services were giving greater attention to workforce wellbeing and productivity.

He also noted continued progress in how the sector is responding to the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

However, he said that services must do more to develop positive organisational cultures and strengthen leadership at all levels.

HMICFRS highlighted that recruitment and retention difficulties remain among protection staff, affecting their capacity to manage competing demands.

Sir Andy said the most effective services are those that have invested in technology and modern governance systems to improve efficiency.

Reform and accountability remain priorities

Sir Andy called on ministers to be “decisive” and to deliver on their commitments to sector reform.

He said the Government should consider giving HMICFRS greater powers to ensure accountability within fire and rescue services.

The report also repeated seven national recommendations made in previous years, several of which remain outstanding.

These include clarifying the roles of fire and rescue services and staff, reforming pay and conditions, and granting chief fire officers operational independence.

Sir Andy Cooke, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Fire and Rescue Services, said: “Fire and rescue services have a crucial role in protecting the public and making communities safe. Every day, staff show unwavering dedication and professionalism.

“It was encouraging to see improvements made in our latest round of inspections, particularly the progress made in protection departments and the focus on improving productivity.

“However, persistent issues remain in some areas, such as values, culture and behaviour, and leadership. Until our outstanding recommendations are addressed in full, the sector won’t be able to give the best service to the public.

“Now is a valuable opportunity to refocus efforts and advance reform across the fire and rescue sector, including extending our powers and establishing a College of Fire and Rescue.

“Reform will be vital to create a consistent, professional and accountable fire and rescue service the public expects and deserves.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This annual assessment is directly relevant to senior officers, chief fire officers, and governance bodies within fire and rescue services in England.

It provides an overview of inspection findings that influence leadership expectations, operational priorities, and resource planning across services.

For local authority fire and rescue services, the call for clearer operational independence and reform of pay and conditions could shape future workforce management and organisational structure.

Procurement and technology managers may note the emphasis on investment in IT and governance systems as indicators of higher service performance.

Policy and standards teams will also find the inspector’s renewed focus on accountability and culture useful in understanding where national reform may next be directed.

Compliance Group strengthens leadership with new fire division appointment

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Compliance Group appoints new Managing Director for fire division

Compliance Group has announced the appointment of Scott McKay as Managing Director of its Fire division.

According to the company, McKay brings more than 25 years of experience in the fire and security industry.

He began his career as an apprentice electrician before moving into Fire and Security, gaining practical experience across a range of roles.

The company said McKay is recognised for his ability to deliver business growth and operational transformation.

His background includes managing profit and loss responsibility for both mid-sized and large-scale organisations.

McKay has led initiatives to consolidate multiple businesses under a single brand, streamline operations and create stable, growth-oriented enterprises.

Sarah Dixon, CEO of Compliance Group, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Scott to the Compliance Group leadership team.

“His track record of transforming business culture and delivering outstanding financial results speaks for itself.

“We are confident that his strategic vision will be a significant asset as we continue to expand our services and enhance value for our clients.”

McKay said: “I am excited to be joining Compliance Group and to lead its Fire division.

“I believe in empowering teams and fostering a culture of accountability to achieve outstanding results.

“My goal is to lead from the front, championing business transformation and driving sustainable growth to enhance the bottom line.

“I look forward to working with the team to build on their success and deliver innovative, best-in-class fire safety solutions for our clients.”

Leadership experience and growth focus

Compliance Group stated that McKay’s appointment marks a step in its plan to strengthen its fire safety business.

The company said his leadership approach centres on improving efficiency and long-term growth while maintaining service quality.

It added that McKay’s experience in overseeing diverse operations positions him to enhance the Fire division’s performance and market reach.

The appointment forms part of Compliance Group’s wider strategy to expand its safety and regulatory compliance portfolio.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Scott McKay’s appointment to lead Compliance Group’s Fire division holds practical relevance for contractors, system installers and compliance managers.

His background in integrating fire and security operations could influence how the company develops future services in design, installation and maintenance.

The emphasis on streamlined business structure and growth-focused leadership may lead to expanded service capacity for clients requiring fire-safety compliance and inspection support.

For professionals involved in procurement or partnership with Compliance Group, the leadership change may signal operational and organisational adjustments in the company’s fire division over the coming year.

London Fire Brigade launches Young Voices project to engage staff

by Featured NewsTraining

Young Voices project aims to engage younger staff

According to the London Fire Brigade, a new project is enabling younger employees to contribute ideas and feedback about working in the organisation.

The initiative, called Young Voices, has been launched in partnership with Entrepreneurs in Action.

The Brigade said it is aimed at staff aged 18 to 27.

It explained that discussion forums and workshops are being used to collect feedback on employment experiences and ideas for improving career development.

It added that participants presented their proposals to London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith and other senior leaders.

Commissioner supports engagement with younger colleagues

London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “London Fire Brigade is a great organisation that our employees are proud to work for, but it’s vital that young colleagues feel heard and valued.

“The insights that our Young Voices provided have been unique and creative. Engaging with them has proven to me that the future of the Brigade is in safe hands and their work will help us to create positive career experiences for everyone at London Fire Brigade.

“If you are starting your career, London Fire Brigade offers qualifications and development, a sense of belonging and the opportunity to contribute to the safety of Londoners.”

Entrepreneurs in Action partnership

Entrepreneurs in Action chief executive Derek Browne said: “Traditional employee engagement surveys capture opinions, but our ‘ICAN’ methodology enables young employees to develop practical solutions and recommendations that senior leaders can implement.

“Commissioner Smith’s commitment to being the first to implement our commercial methodology across a major UK emergency service demonstrates genuine sector leadership.

“This proves you can unlock Gen Z problem-solving in even the most traditional environments.”

Apprenticeship programmes

The Brigade said Young Voices is part of its wider work to make the fire service an attractive career for young people.

It reported that its Firefighter Apprenticeship programme has been expanded to include a Level 5 Coaching Professional Apprenticeship and a Level 3 Accounts Assistant Apprenticeship.

It confirmed it was ranked 62nd in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and was the only fire and rescue service included in the list.

It added that more than 240 firefighters completed the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship last year.

Other qualifications and development

The Brigade stated that it also supports sponsored fire engineering degrees.

It said these are offered alongside professional development courses and memberships to professional bodies.

It noted that its Leadership Academy delivers 10 leadership development programmes.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This project reflects an organisational approach to workforce development that prioritises employee engagement and structured career pathways.

For fire and rescue services, the model shows how structured feedback from younger staff can inform policy and operational culture.

Apprenticeships and professional qualifications outlined in the initiative demonstrate how emergency services can combine recruitment strategies with long-term retention planning.

London Fire Brigade launches Young Voices project to engage staff: Summary

The London Fire Brigade has launched the Young Voices project in partnership with Entrepreneurs in Action.

The initiative involves staff aged 18 to 27 in discussions about employment experiences and career development.

Participants present proposals to senior leaders, including the London Fire Commissioner.

The Brigade said the project is part of its strategy to make the service attractive to younger recruits.

It has expanded its apprenticeship offer to include new qualifications.

The Brigade was the only fire service in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers.

More than 240 firefighters completed the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship last year.

Other opportunities include sponsored degrees and leadership development programmes.