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Air Vice-Marshal Fin Monahan OBE DFC PhD has taken up his new post as the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS).
Fin’s appointment was first announced in July following a rigorous and extensive selection process, which saw Fin emerge as the clear choice for both stakeholder panels – including staff from all levels and representative bodies – and the four Commissioners for South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, who unanimously endorsed his appointment.
Fin joins SWFRS after a distinguished and decorated career as a fast jet fighter pilot and senior leader in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Fin’s exceptional qualifications include Masters’ degrees from the University of Nottingham and University of Madras, as well as a PhD in Organisational Culture from the University of Birmingham, awarded in 2018. He is a published writer and a recognised expert in organisational culture, focusing on how to build courage, morale, respect, and cohesion within uniformed organisations.
“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.
“I would like every staff member, regardless of their role or location, to feel proud of their work, and to join me and the leadership team in rebuilding the Service into an organisation where everyone feels welcome, supported, and safe. That will help us build the cohesion and mutual support needed to fulfil our mission of keeping the 1.5 million citizens of South Wales safe.”
Fin Monahan, Chief Fire Officer, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
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