Hunt is on for our new Chief Officer

The search has started to find an exceptional Chief Officer to lead South Wales Fire and Rescue Service through a period of significant cultural and organisational change, and to re-establish the Service’s reputation as an employer of choice and trusted community partner.

The four Commissioners for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), appointed by the Welsh Government on 6 February, have spent the past three months getting to know the Service, its staff, and communities in order to create a role that best meets the needs of all stakeholders.

Commissioner Vij Randeniya, chair of the SWFRS People Committee, said: “It is essential that the new Chief Officer has a track record of strong and inclusive leadership, with an ability to build on achievements and drive sustainable change and improvement.

“We are under no illusions that the task at SWFRS is significant, high-profile, and will require a committed and exceptional leader. That is why we have broadened our search to include either a Chief Executive Officer or an operational Chief Fire Officer.

“South Wales Fire and Rescue has a talented workforce that is committed to creating a culture that is inclusive and welcoming for all. The new Chief will need to possess excellent communication skills and have the ability to nurture and manage strong relationships across all staff, communities and stakeholders.”

To assist with this wide-reaching search, the Commissioners have engaged an executive search consultancy. GatenbySanderson has a long association with the fire and rescue sector and demonstrated considerable expertise in attracting a diverse and talented field of potential candidates during recent campaigns.

Could you be our next Chief Officer? Find out more or apply by Monday 27th May at GatenbySanderson