Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service
Area Manager/Head of Directorate -External
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Area Manager/Head of Directorate -External
Roles: Area Manager(s) / Head of Directorate
We are seeking to appoint two Senior Leaders in the organisation at Area Manager / Head of Directorate level. The roles are:
- Head of Strategy and Intelligence
- Head of Response
Both critical posts will ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality services across Staffordshire, supporting strategic objectives and maintaining community safety and resilience.
Reports to: Assistant Chief Fire Officer
Location
Service Headquarters, Pirehill, Stone, Staffordshire
Grade / Salary
- Grey Book – Area Manager B (Competent) plus £74,360 + 20% flexible duty allowance for operational officers
- Green Book Grade 11 – £54,495 plus additional supplement
Eligibility
Substantive and competent Group Managers within a Fire and Rescue Service or equivalent managerial experience.
About Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service
We are dedicated to delivering excellence in service, ensuring Staffordshire is the safest place to be.
Our commitment to:
- Strong leadership
- A diverse workforce
- Continuous improvement in prevention, protection, response, and risk management
We align with our Community Risk Management Plan and aim to reflect our communities in all roles.
About the Opportunity
As a Head of Directorate, your role will provide strategic leadership for teams implementing safety enhancement and strengthening operational resilience. Critical responsibilities include:
- Strategic oversight of Service Delivery Functions
- Driving cultural and operational excellence
- Aligning organisational efforts with the Community Risk Management Plan
- Ensuring strategic governance, risk management, performance, resilience, and emergency response
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Planning & Risk Management: Develop and implement strategic plans and risk frameworks.
- Performance Assurance: Monitor operational and legislative compliance.
- Transformation & Preparedness: Lead change initiatives and operational readiness.
- Business Continuity & Risk Mitigation: Oversee management of corporate risk, resilience, and resource allocation.
- Decision Support: Advise the PFCC and Senior Leadership Team on strategic matters.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Serve as a visible, inclusive leader and mentor within the service.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Communicate and engage with internal/external stakeholders.
- Compliance & Safety: Maintain HMIGFRS, health & safety, and safeguarding standards.
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Core Accountabilities
Your responsibilities include:
- Performance & Culture: Design performance measurement systems, encourage continuous improvement.
- Organisational Change: Lead transformation with internal and external partnerships.
- Resource Management: Effectively manage budgets, service assets, and strategic decisions.
- Diversity & Industrial Relations: Cultivate an inclusive culture and positive employer/employee relations.
- Corporate Governance: Oversee risk mitigation, governance, and resilience planning.
- Development & Coaching: Align CPD and team development with NFCC Leadership Values.
Skills & Experience
We seek driven, resilient leaders who embody the Core Code of Ethics.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Experience at Group Manager level or equivalent managerial experience in Fire & Rescue or related sectors.
- Proven leadership, team development, and fostering inclusive cultures**.
- Strong stakeholder engagement, communication, and influence.
- Deep understanding of HMICFRS frameworks, governance, and statutory obligations.
- Ability to deliver strategic insight backed by evidence-based advice.
- Commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and organisational learning.
Additional Requirements
- Willingness to complete essential training for the role.
- Willingness to reside within Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service boundary (for Grey Book roles).
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Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a UK Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager, or equivalent.
- Must not currently face formal disciplinary action or other sanction affecting employment eligibility.
- Must be willing to operate flexibly across Staffordshire and respond to emergency duty.
How to Apply
Selection Process
- Application Form (CV)
- 1000-word personal statement (aligned with NFCC Leadership Framework).
- Assessment Centre (interview + presentation).
- Incident Command Assessment (if noted).
Key Dates
- Closing Date (Applications): Friday, 17th July 2026
- Interview Dates:
- Wednesday, 5th August 2026
- Tuesday, 11th August 2026
- Wednesday, 19th August 2026
Enquiries
Email: recruitment@staffordshirefire.gov.uk
Additional Information
Safeguarding
- Commitment to protecting vulnerable adults, children, and young people.
- Full DBS checks required.
Positive Action & Equality
- Disability affirmative action: Guide available for accommodations.
- Flexible work arrangements discussed at early application stages.
- Equal opportunities for all candidates.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits include: ✅ Enhanced annual leave ✅ Generous pension scheme ✅ Gym & Wellness Access + Free Parking ✅ Occupational health & physiotherapy ✅ Maternity/Early Years support ✅ Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) ✅ Flexible work policies ✅ Blue Light Card
Why Work with Us?
- Passionate teams with impactful, tangible outcomes for the community.
- Inspiring leadership across two essential Heads of Directorate roles.
- Rewards and advancement linked to our shared vision of a safe Staffordshire.
Ready to lead, inspire, and serve? Apply today! Careers | Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service
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