Jason Thelwell joins Fire Industry Association as General Manager in March 2025

by Associations and OrganisationsBreaking NewsPeople

New general manager Jason Thelwell brings extensive fire safety experience to the FIA

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that Jason Thelwell will take on the role of General Manager starting 1st March 2025.

As reported by the FIA, Thelwell brings a wealth of experience from his current position as Senior Fire Engineer at Tetra Consulting Ltd.

In this role, Thelwell developed a deep understanding of the fire sector, preparing him for the responsibilities of the General Manager role at the FIA.

He leaves Tetra with positive remarks about his colleagues and the organisation.

Before joining Tetra Consulting, Thelwell served as Chief Fire Officer of Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

His leadership focused on overseeing the service’s strategic direction, performance, and governance.

He worked to ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective services to protect the public and businesses while promoting a culture of innovation, collaboration, and diversity.

Thelwell’s background and credentials strengthen the FIA’s capabilities

Thelwell’s professional qualifications complement his extensive experience in the fire safety sector.

He is a Fellow of the Institution of Fire Engineers, holds a BSc in Fire Engineering Management, and is a Chartered Manager following the completion of an executive MBA.

These qualifications reflect his technical expertise and commitment to the fire industry, making him a valuable asset to the FIA.

Ian Moore, Chief Executive Officer of the FIA, expressed his enthusiasm about Thelwell’s appointment, stating: “Jason is an exciting addition to our team, and his knowledge and passion for fire safety will be instrumental in our delivery and influence, and I am really looking forward to working with him.”

FIA looks to continued growth with Thelwell’s leadership

According to the FIA, the association has experienced impressive growth in recent years.

This expansion is attributed to its strong training programs, membership base, and technical services.

The addition of Thelwell comes as the FIA continues to enhance its support for its members.

With the upcoming opening of the Centre of Excellence for fire safety in Northwich and the implementation of digital transformation platforms to improve efficiency, the FIA is well-positioned for further expansion and continued leadership in the fire safety industry.

Moore further remarked: “The FIA has had a fantastic few years building its size and reputation with many stakeholders.

“It is the largest and strongest fire trade association in Europe, and we are committed to raising the bar of professionalism in our industry.”

Summary: Fire Industry Association appoints Jason Thelwell as General Manager: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has appointed Jason Thelwell as its new General Manager, starting 1st March 2025.

Thelwell, currently a Senior Fire Engineer at Tetra Consulting Ltd, has significant experience in the fire sector.

He previously served as Chief Fire Officer of Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, where he focused on delivering high-quality services and fostering a culture of innovation and diversity.

The FIA is optimistic that his leadership will further strengthen its mission to improve fire safety standards and support its members.

The association continues to expand its offerings, with new developments such as the Centre of Excellence for fire safety and enhanced digital platforms.

Daniel Vandergriff returns to Telgian as President of Telgian Fire Safety

by Featured NewsPeople

Daniel Vandergriff’s return to Telgian

Telgian CEO James Tomes recently announced the reappointment of Daniel Vandergriff as President of Telgian Fire Safety (TFS).

According to Telgian, Vandergriff’s new role includes responsibility for mergers and acquisitions, sales, finance, and vendor management within TFS operations.

Vandergriff, who has over three decades of industry experience, previously served in various leadership capacities at Telgian between 2007 and 2023, including Executive Vice President of Telgian Engineering & Consulting.

Experience prior to returning to Telgian

Before rejoining Telgian, Vandergriff served as Chief Operating Officer at HurtVet, a federal government contractor specialising in fire, life safety, and security services.

Throughout his career, Vandergriff has focused on developing and implementing operations strategies and performance metrics to achieve measurable success.

Additionally, he is a recognised expert in the fire protection and engineering field, regularly contributing through lectures and publications.

Leadership qualities highlighted

Telgian CEO James Tomes praised Vandergriff’s leadership abilities: “Dan is a visionary and results-driven business leader.

“His innovative initiatives and commitment to excellence align seamlessly with Telgian Fire Safety’s mission to deliver outstanding customer experiences.

“We are delighted to welcome Dan back to Telgian.”

Vandergriff’s qualifications and certifications

Vandergriff holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an Associate’s degree in Fire Science from Wayland Baptist University.

He served in the United States Air Force from 1995 to 2004, where he worked as a firefighter in various global locations.

Vandergriff’s professional certifications include Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS), Fire Officer III, ICC Fire Plans Examiner, IFSAC/ICC Fire Inspector III, and NICET II certification for Fire Sprinkler Layout and Design.

Daniel Vandergriff appointed President of Telgian Fire Safety: Summary

Telgian CEO James Tomes has announced the return of Daniel Vandergriff to Telgian, where he will serve as President of Telgian Fire Safety.

Vandergriff will oversee mergers, acquisitions, sales, finance, and vendor management.

With over 30 years of experience in the fire safety industry, Vandergriff has held leadership roles at both Telgian and HurtVet.

Telgian CEO Tomes described Vandergriff as a visionary and results-driven leader whose skills align with Telgian Fire Safety’s objectives.

In addition to his extensive professional background, Vandergriff holds degrees in Business Administration and Fire Science, alongside certifications such as CFPS and NICET II.

He also served as a firefighter in the United States Air Force from 1995 to 2004.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes

by ConstructionFeatured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

BESA announces first Chief Operating Officer

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer.

According to BESA, Gilbert began his role at the start of 2025 after serving as a consultant to the organisation since last year.

BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, said: “Tony brings enormous experience and vision to the Association and has already played a key role in our strategic review and re-organisation.”

Tony Gilbert’s background in management and consultancy

Tony Gilbert previously worked with illumini consulting for 15 years, specialising in organisational change and growth strategies.

His clients included high-profile organisations such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, BAE, the Ministry of Justice, and the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA).

Before that, he held the role of group technology director at France Telecom – Orange and established his own consultancy in 1993.

Strategic focus of the new role

David Frise commented on the importance of this appointment: “We are delighted that he has now agreed to join us full-time to guide us through the next vital stage as we put our plans into action.”

Tony Gilbert expressed his aspirations: “It has been a real privilege to work closely with the staff and membership of this historic and forward-looking trade body as it re-sets for an exciting and challenging new era in building services technology and practices.”

Challenges and opportunities for the sector

Gilbert highlighted the issues currently facing the sector, including skills shortages, difficult trading conditions, and rapid technological changes.

He added: “Our members and their clients are facing an unprecedented range of challenges, alongside significant business opportunities such as the rapid deployment of digital technology and an urgent drive towards decarbonisation of the built environment.”

“The Association’s leadership has been working flat out to ensure members have the information, tools and support they need to, not just survive, but thrive in this new environment,” Gilbert stated.

BESA names Tony Gilbert as first COO during major strategic changes: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has appointed Tony Gilbert as its first chief operating officer, beginning in January 2025.

Gilbert, who previously worked as a consultant for BESA, brings extensive experience in management and organisational change, including roles at illumini consulting and France Telecom – Orange.

The appointment comes as part of BESA’s broader strategic transformation to address challenges such as skills shortages and decarbonisation while leveraging opportunities in digital technology.

BESA’s CEO, David Frise, described Gilbert as a visionary leader who will play a critical role in advancing the Association’s plans.

Gilbert emphasised the importance of supporting members during this period of rapid change, aiming to equip them to thrive in evolving market conditions.

Promat strengthens UK team with new architectural specification manager

by Featured NewsPassivePeople

New architectural specification manager joins Promat

Passive fire protection specialist Promat has announced the appointment of Martin Wrigley as Architectural Specification Manager for the North and Midlands.

Wrigley will join the team alongside Harvey Brown, recently appointed as National Specification Manager, to meet growing demand for architectural and specification support under the requirements of the Building Safety Act.

The Act mandates early-stage consideration of passive fire protection systems in building designs, prompting a rise in demand for expertise in this area.

Enhanced support for architects and contractors

Wrigley will provide technical assistance to architects, specifiers, contractors, and developers in specifying passive fire protection systems.

His responsibilities include managing contractor and vendor relationships and ensuring effective communication with key project stakeholders.

Holding an IFE Level 3 qualification in Passive Fire Protection, Wrigley brings substantial experience in fire safety systems, further strengthening Promat’s ability to assist clients with regulatory compliance and system integration.

Promat’s commitment to passive fire safety

Promat has highlighted the importance of expert support in passive fire protection.

Wrigley said: “Promat creates an impressive suite of market-leading systems, and I am looking forward to continuing the work they have been doing to demonstrate their product capabilities to new and existing clients.”

He added: “The Building Safety Act has increased demand for knowledge and instruction around passive fire protection solutions, and having the support there from the manufacturer up is absolutely vital to protect both new and refurbished buildings.”

Insights from Promat leadership

Technical Director Nigel Morrey commented on Wrigley’s appointment: “The team at Promat is dedicated to providing customers with a highly detailed level of support, with competency demonstrated through experience as well as recognised qualifications.

“Martin’s vast industry expertise will be an asset to the specification team in the North and the Midlands.”

Promat strengthens UK team with new architectural specification manager: Summary

Promat has appointed Martin Wrigley as Architectural Specification Manager for the North and Midlands.

The role addresses increased demand for passive fire protection expertise under the Building Safety Act.

Wrigley, who holds the IFE Level 3 in Passive Fire Protection, brings extensive industry knowledge and will support architects, contractors, and developers.

Promat Technical Director Nigel Morrey welcomed Wrigley’s appointment, highlighting the value of his expertise to the team.

Promat continues to provide comprehensive passive fire protection solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding building integrity.

Natasha Bambridge joins Element Materials Technology as divisional director for certification

by Featured NewsPeople

Appointment of Natasha Bambridge as divisional director

Element Materials Technology has named Natasha Bambridge as Divisional Director of Certification & Technical within its Built Environment division.

This role includes overseeing BM TRADA product certification brands such as BMT QMark, Warringtonfire Certifire, Certisecure, and Firas.

According to Element Materials Technology, Bambridge will focus on certification activities, including global manufacturing site audits, verifying installation processes, and evaluating technical test evidence for construction products, with a specific focus on fire safety.

Focus on enhanced certification processes

Jason Dodds, Vice President of Built Environment at Element, highlighted Bambridge’s leadership and vision.

Dodds said: “Natasha brings exactly the kind of leadership and vision we need as we continue to evolve our product certification services.

!Her extensive experience in driving business transformation, combined with her focus on optimising the end-to-end customer journey, will be invaluable as we further strengthen our position as industry leaders, particularly as we launch our new Birchwood Park facility.”

The Birchwood Park facility in Warrington, set to open in January 2025, is a $30 million investment that will significantly expand Element’s fire resistance testing capacity.

Previous experience and contributions

Before joining Element, Bambridge held the position of Strategic Solutions Director at BSI’s Product Certification division.

Her work spanned global sustainability initiatives and multiple industry sectors, including construction, retail, and finance.

Bambridge’s previous achievements include transforming business units for growth while maintaining technical excellence.

Relocation to Birchwood Park and future goals

Currently based across Element’s High Wycombe and Warrington sites, Bambridge plans to relocate to the new 101,000 square foot Birchwood Park facility upon its completion.

Commenting on her appointment, Bambridge said: “The product certification industry is entering a transformative phase, particularly in digitisation and sustainability.

“With the opening of our new Birchwood Park laboratory, which triples our fire resistance testing capacity, we are perfectly positioned to lead these changes while continuing to ensure public safety through rigorous product certification processes.”

She added that Element’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability was a major factor in her decision to join.

Natasha Bambridge joins Element Materials Technology as divisional director for certification: Summary

Element Materials Technology has appointed Natasha Bambridge as Divisional Director of Certification & Technical in its Built Environment division.

She will oversee BM TRADA product certification brands and focus on certification processes, fire safety, and the evaluation of construction products.

The announcement comes ahead of the January 2025 opening of Element’s new Birchwood Park facility in Warrington.

Bambridge’s prior experience includes leading global sustainability initiatives and driving growth in her role at BSI.

She highlighted the transformative phase in certification, driven by digitisation and sustainability, as a key opportunity for Element.

The Birchwood Park facility will triple Element’s fire resistance testing capacity, underscoring its commitment to safety, diversity, and sustainability.

Bryn Wilde announced as Association for Project Safety President from 2027

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsPeople

APS announces new president to lead from 2027

The Association for Project Safety (APS), a UK-wide professional body with 4,500 members, has announced Dr Bryn Wilde as its President from 2027.

Dr Wilde will succeed current President Mark Snelling upon the completion of his term in February 2027.

A Chartered Civil Engineer and Fellow member of APS, Dr Wilde has been an active contributor to the organisation for over two decades.

He has held roles on the Regional Committee, Council, and Board of Directors.

Dr Bryn Wilde’s contributions to APS

Dr Wilde has played a significant role in APS governance, serving on committees such as Membership and Standards, Education and Training, and Finance.

He also represents APS on key panels, including the Construction Industry Council Health & Safety Panel and the Health and Safety Wales Consultation Panel.

Commenting on his election, Dr Wilde highlighted APS’s commitment to engaging with governments across the UK and addressing emerging legislative changes:

“APS is at a key point in its history with the introduction of the new Building Safety Act and accompanying regulations, the various responses to the post-Grenfell recommendations in the devolved nations, and the new requirements being placed around competence and organisational capability,” he said.

Collaboration with key stakeholders

APS aims to remain a prominent stakeholder in the construction sector by influencing health and safety policies and improving professional standards.

Dr Wilde said he is committed to ensuring APS continues to represent its members’ concerns and maintain its influence in legislative consultations.

He added: “I will work tirelessly to help APS maintain its place as the premier health and safety risk management and regulatory compliance body working closely with partners across the whole construction field.”

Mark Snelling, the current President, expressed his confidence in Dr Wilde’s leadership, saying: “Bryn has been a great support to me in my first year as President. We are aligned in our vision for the APS.”

APS’s role in the construction industry

APS supports its members, including architects and technologists, by providing training, education, and networking opportunities.

It aims to improve health and safety through effective design and risk management practices across the lifecycle of construction projects.

The organisation collaborates with bodies across the UK to promote better standards in the built environment, ensuring the health and safety of all involved.

Dr Bryn Wilde announced as APS President from 2027: Summary

The Association for Project Safety (APS) has elected Dr Bryn Wilde as its President for 2027.

Dr Wilde, a Chartered Civil Engineer and long-standing member of APS, will succeed Mark Snelling when his term ends in February 2027.

He has held numerous leadership roles within APS and represents the organisation on various industry panels.

Dr Wilde emphasised APS’s commitment to engaging with legislative developments, particularly in response to the Building Safety Act and post-Grenfell recommendations.

APS aims to enhance health and safety in construction through training, education, and collaboration with key stakeholders across the UK.

Advanced announces Laura Carter’s new role as Associate Product Manager

by Featured NewsPeople

Laura Carter transitions to product management role

According to Advanced, Laura Carter, formerly part of the Technical Support team, has been appointed as Associate Product Manager within the company’s Product team.

Carter has been with the organisation for several years, gaining recognition for her deep product knowledge and problem-solving abilities while working in Technical Support.

She was noted for providing trusted support to customers, enhancing Advanced’s reputation for technical excellence.

In her new position, Carter will collaborate with colleagues across the company to advance product development initiatives.

She will focus on aligning products with customer needs, drawing on her hands-on experience in Technical Support to inform the direction of Advanced’s product portfolio.

Comments from Laura Carter and Ian White

Carter expressed her enthusiasm for the role: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in Technical Support and am grateful for the opportunities it’s given me to connect with our customers and learn the ins and outs of our products.

“I’m excited to bring that experience to my new role and look forward to contributing to the continued success of Advanced’s product range.”

Ian White, Product Manager at Advanced, highlighted Carter’s contributions: “Her hands-on experience in Technical Support and in-depth product knowledge make her an invaluable addition to the team.

“I’m confident her insights will play a key role in driving innovation and shaping our product offerings to better meet our customers’ needs.”

Focus on customer-driven product innovation

Carter’s new role underscores Advanced’s strategy of leveraging internal talent to drive innovation.

Her previous experience is expected to provide valuable insights into customer requirements, enabling the company to enhance its product range effectively.

Advanced stated that Carter’s expertise positions her well to influence product development initiatives.

The move reflects the company’s approach to aligning internal progression with its commitment to meeting customer demands.

Career development within Advanced

Advanced emphasised its commitment to fostering career growth within the organisation.

The company described Carter’s transition as an example of its focus on developing team members and creating opportunities for progression.

The organisation noted that internal career development plays a crucial role in ensuring employees contribute effectively to long-term goals.

Carter’s move aligns with this ethos, highlighting Advanced’s emphasis on both professional growth and customer-focused innovation.

Laura Carter appointed associate product manager at Advanced: Summary

Laura Carter has been named Associate Product Manager at Advanced, following her tenure in the Technical Support team.

She brings extensive product knowledge and customer-focused insights to her new role.

Ian White, Product Manager at Advanced, noted that Carter’s expertise will contribute to advancing product development.

The appointment highlights Advanced’s commitment to internal career development and meeting evolving customer needs through innovation.

Alpine Fire appoints Claire Owens as Group Managing Director

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Claire Owens brings diverse leadership experience to Alpine

Claire Owens has been named Group Managing Director for Alpine Fire Ltd and DAS Fire Ltd.

She assumes this role with extensive leadership experience spanning industries such as automotive, logistics, telecommunications, and travel.

Her responsibilities will include overseeing the group’s continued growth, fostering collaboration among teams, and furthering Alpine’s expertise in the fire engineering sector.

Owens stated: “I am honoured to step into the role of group managing director at Alpine.

“I look forward to working alongside our talented team to drive growth and innovation and ensure that we meet the evolving needs of our clients while maintaining the highest safety standards.”

Focus on business scaling and growth

Claire Owens’ previous role involved managing over 2,000 employees.

Her approach at Alpine will centre on scaling operations, expanding service offerings, and exploring new business opportunities.

The company highlights its strategic commitment to growth, supported by its partners at WestBridge.

This includes the integration of DAS Fire following its acquisition and positioning Alpine as the UK’s leader in ESG fire engineering.

Steven Nanda, Alpine’s CEO, commented: “I am absolutely delighted that Claire has joined our leadership team.

“This is a significant appointment, supported by our partners WestBridge, which demonstrates our on-going commitment to growth and our aim to be the ‘go to’ specialist for complex fire suppression solutions.”

Strategic backing from WestBridge

WestBridge, which partnered with Alpine in 2022, has played a key role in enabling Alpine’s growth strategy.

The firm has prioritised investment in talent development and cultural excellence to support the company’s goals.

Peter Barkley, Partner at WestBridge, stated: “Having partnered with Alpine in December 2022, we have supported their continued investment in cultural excellence and the recruitment and development of high-quality talent, creating a robust platform to deliver the next phase of Alpine’s strategic growth plan.”

He added: “Alpine is still enjoying strong organic growth and following the recent acquisition of DAS Fire, it is a really exciting time to have Claire join the award-winning team at Alpine.”

Claire Owens appointed to lead Alpine Group: Summary

Claire Owens has been appointed Group Managing Director of Alpine Fire Ltd and DAS Fire Ltd.

She brings extensive leadership experience and will focus on scaling operations, exploring new business opportunities, and enhancing the group’s services.

CEO Steven Nanda and WestBridge Partner Peter Barkley welcomed her appointment, highlighting its alignment with Alpine’s ongoing strategic growth and recent acquisitions.

Alpine aims to strengthen its position as the UK’s leader in ESG fire engineering.

IWMA re-elects Dirk Sprakel as Vice-President in 2024 board meeting

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionPeople

IWMA board confirms vice-presidency of Dirk Sprakel

Dirk Sprakel, affiliated with Fogtec, has been confirmed in office as vice-president of the International Water Mist Association (IWMA) during the board meeting held on 24 October.

This meeting followed the annual member gathering in Antwerp on 17 September.

Sprakel, who has held the vice-presidential role for over a decade, was re-elected for another term under the association’s regulations, which require board members to be confirmed every three years.

The process to confirm the vice-president took place over two stages.

First, Sprakel’s membership on the board was validated during the annual meeting in Antwerp.

Then, his position as vice-president was reaffirmed at the subsequent October board meeting.

Changes to IWMA board membership

Alongside the re-election of Sprakel, Henrik Bygbjerg from Danfoss Fire Safety was also confirmed as a board member.

Bygbjerg’s position was similarly reviewed and confirmed as per the association’s standard procedure for maintaining governance.

The re-confirmations are part of IWMA’s structured approach to periodically review board roles.

In addition to the reappointments, a change was announced as Alex Palle from VID Firekill stepped down from the IWMA board.

The association extended honorary membership to Palle in recognition of his contributions to the board and organisation over his tenure.

IWMA’s board structure and re-election policy

IWMA board members, including the vice-president, are required by the association’s articles to undergo a re-confirmation every three years.

This structured review aims to ensure continuity and adherence to governance protocols within the board’s operations, allowing for regular assessments and any necessary adjustments to its membership.

Sprakel’s extensive tenure reflects continuity in IWMA leadership, particularly in the vice-president role, which he has now held for over a decade.

By confirming Sprakel and Bygbjerg, IWMA maintains its established leadership as it continues to address the association’s aims.

Recognition for outgoing board member

As Alex Palle concludes his service on the IWMA board, he has been awarded honorary membership in appreciation of his efforts.

This recognition acknowledges his longstanding service and contributions to IWMA initiatives during his board tenure.

IWMA re-elects Dirk Sprakel as vice-president in 2024 board meeting: Summary

Dirk Sprakel has been re-elected as vice-president of the IWMA during the association’s board meeting held on 24 October.

Sprakel’s confirmation was completed in two parts, beginning with his validation as a board member at IWMA’s annual meeting in Antwerp, followed by his re-election as vice-president in October.

Henrik Bygbjerg of Danfoss Fire Safety was also confirmed as a board member, while Alex Palle from VID Firekill departed from the board and received honorary membership.

This confirmation and re-election process aligns with IWMA’s governance protocols, which mandate a three-year review for all board positions.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service appoints Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan as Chief Fire Officer

by Featured NewsPeople

Fin Monahan steps into Chief Fire Officer role at SWFRS

Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan OBE DFC PhD has officially taken on the position of Chief Fire Officer (CFO) for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS).

According to SWFRS, Monahan’s appointment follows an extensive selection process where he emerged as the preferred candidate, receiving full support from both staff panels and the Service’s Commissioners.

Monahan brings an extensive background to the role, including a decorated career as a fast jet fighter pilot and senior leader with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Ministry of Defence (MOD).

He holds a PhD in organisational culture from the University of Birmingham, focusing on leadership and team cohesion within uniformed organisations, alongside two master’s degrees from the University of Nottingham and the University of Madras.

Commissioners endorse Monahan’s vision for SWFRS

The Commissioners for SWFRS expressed their full support for Monahan’s appointment, highlighting his distinguished background and leadership skills.

They issued a statement welcoming his selection: “We are exceptionally pleased that Fin Monahan accepted the position of Chief Fire Officer, and we are truly excited about his appointment.”

They added: “As we welcome him into the Service today, we look forward to working together to make SWFRS the very best place it can be for its people, and the communities of South Wales.”

Monahan himself acknowledged the responsibility, stating: “I am honoured to be entrusted with this important role, and I’m grateful to the staff, unions, stakeholders, and the Commissioners for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service for their confidence in me.”

He committed to fostering an inclusive work environment, aiming to build cohesion and mutual support to better serve the 1.5 million residents of South Wales.

Strategic experience and commitment to transformation

Monahan’s experience in leading teams under complex conditions is seen as a significant asset as he steps into his role at SWFRS.

His background in military and civilian leadership will support the Service’s ongoing Transformation Programme, an initiative led by Dominic Mika, SWFRS’s Director of Strategic Change and Transformation.

Mika welcomed Monahan’s appointment, commenting: “This appointment is an important moment for the Service. It brings further stability, leadership, and direction.”

The Transformation Programme, launched earlier in 2024, aims to reinforce operational excellence and foster an inclusive culture prioritising public safety.

Monahan’s leadership is expected to drive continued improvement across these initiatives, building on the Service’s existing efforts to enhance operational capabilities and reduce community risk in South Wales.

Training and collaboration to address SWFRS challenges

In preparation for his role, Monahan will complete the Wales Gold Command (MAGIC) course, designed to equip senior leaders with the skills required for managing large-scale emergencies.

Additionally, he will participate in firefighter training to gain practical insights into the challenges faced by frontline personnel.

This hands-on approach is intended to deepen Monahan’s understanding of the operational dynamics within SWFRS, facilitating more informed decision-making and collaboration with staff at all levels.

Monahan will work closely with the SWFRS Commissioners as he begins the process of appointing a permanent Executive Leadership Team.

Together, they aim to build a culture of respect and inclusivity within the Service, strengthening its mission to keep South Wales safe by reducing risks and supporting team cohesion.

Monahan’s strategic approach includes fostering respect, inclusivity, and excellence across SWFRS, ensuring that all personnel feel valued and empowered to carry out their roles effectively.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service appoints Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan as Chief Fire Officer: Summary

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) has welcomed Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan OBE DFC PhD as its new Chief Fire Officer.

Monahan, a former RAF leader with a distinguished military background, was selected after an intensive recruitment process supported by the SWFRS Commissioners and staff panels.

With academic credentials in organisational culture and extensive leadership experience, Monahan aims to foster an inclusive work environment, improve public safety, and support ongoing initiatives within SWFRS’s Transformation Programme.

His upcoming training will include the Wales Gold Command (MAGIC) course and firefighter operations training, providing him with practical insights to address the unique challenges faced by the Service.

Under Monahan’s leadership, SWFRS aims to strengthen its commitment to safety, risk reduction, and team cohesion for the 1.5 million residents it serves across South Wales.