South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Authority (SYFRA) has appointed Chris Kirby as the new Chief Fire Officer.
selection and interview
Barnsley-born Chris joined South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue as Deputy Chief Fire Officer in 2020
Chris Kirby was appointed following a selection process which included a written application, interview with members of the Fire Authority, and presentation to members of a staff stakeholder panel.
Barnsley-born Chris joined South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue as Deputy Chief Fire Officer in 2020. He’d previously served with West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue for more than two decades, having joined as a firefighter in 1998.
improving the service
Fire Authority Chair, Cllr Tony Damms, said, “The Fire Authority’s appointments panel was greatly impressed by Chris’ obvious passion for improving the service for all those it serves and employs. His people-centered approach, vision for change, and determination to get things done all make him an outstanding candidate to lead South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue in the future.”
Alex Johnson's retirement
Chris will take over the role in May when the current Chief Fire Officer - Alex Johnson QFSM retires. Alex joined South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue in 2017 and has been Chief Fire Officer since 2020.
“Fire Authority members would like to thank Alex for the leadership she has shown in the role of Chief Fire Officer- particularly in leading the organization through the pandemic and all of the challenges that has brought and for her leadership during the 2019 floods. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors,” said Cllr Tony Damms.
first-class service
Chris Kirby said, “I am extremely proud to be offered the role of Chief Fire Officer in South Yorkshire. It is an honor to provide a first-class service to the local community and to work alongside so many fantastic people.”