Last week, the Brigade’s Principal Officer Team appointed Group Managers - Dave Preston and Lee Brown as Area Managers for Cleveland Fire Brigade. The appointments were made following a robust and competitive selection process.
Forty-one-year-old Dave Preston from Hartlepool has been appointed to the role of Senior Head of Operations overseeing and strategically managing the Brigade’s emergency response and national resilience capability, operational policy and planning, and health and safety services and resources.
New Area Managers for Cleveland Fire Brigade
Area Manager, Dave Preston brings over 19-years of experience with him to the role
Area Manager, Dave Preston brings over 19-years of experience with him to the role, after starting his career as an operational firefighter with the Brigade back in 2005. His career has steadily progressed undertaking a variety of operational and managerial roles.
Speaking upon his appointment, Dave Preston, said: "I am deeply honored and immensely proud to be offered the opportunity to serve the communities of Cleveland as an Area Manager. This role represents a significant milestone in my career, and I am eager to embrace the challenges and responsibilities that come with it."
Dave Preston adds, "I am truly grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me, and I am committed to upholding the high standards and values of Cleveland Fire Brigade."
Lee Brown - Senior Head of Prevention and Protection
Also successful at the recent appointment’s process was forty-six-year-old Lee Brown who has been appointed to the role of Senior Head of Prevention and Protection with responsibility for strategically managing the community prevention and safeguarding services, the fire investigation function, and the regulatory business and building safety protection services.
Area Manager, Lee Brown brings over 21-years of experience with him to the role and a wide depth of knowledge and skills. He started his fire and rescue career at County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) back in 2003, after serving in the British Army.
Extensive industry experience
Lee joined Cleveland Fire Brigade in February 2022 in the role of Group Manager
He rose through the ranks at CDDFRS undertaking operational, managerial, training, and learning and development roles.
Lee joined Cleveland Fire Brigade in February 2022 in the role of Group Manager, Training and Assurance with overall responsibility for training, national operational guidance, operational assurance and the application of national fire standards.
Speaking upon his appointment, Lee Brown, said: "I’m absolutely delighted, proud and privileged to be appointed to this role and I look forward to taking on the new challenge. The position as Senior Head of Prevention, Protection, and Engagement represents a significant milestone in my career, and I am eager to bring my experience and dedication to this vital role."
He adds, "I have always been passionate about enhancing community safety and this promotion provides an excellent platform to make a tangible difference."
Initiatives in fire prevention and protection strategies
Lee Brown continues: "I am particularly excited to drive forward initiatives in fire prevention and protection strategies, as well as community engagement, ensuring that we continue to deliver outstanding services to the people of Teesside."
Chief Fire Officer, Ian Hayton said: "These are fantastic appointments for our outstanding fire and rescue service and for the communities we so proudly serve. Dave and Lee both bring a wealth of experience, skills and knowledge to their respective positions and their passion, dedication, commitment and tenacity will be vital to shape the future and continually improve the performance of this amazing Brigade."