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Yorkshire-based North Fire has announced the appointment Terry Johnson as head of MENA region to lead the firm’s upcoming firefighting vehicle projects in the Middle East.
Terry Johnson boasts a host of challenging yet hugely successful experiences on his illustrious firefighting sector CV, after initially joining Oxfordshire fire and rescue service in 1978. In 1989, he was seconded to the United Nations in a training role for UNIDO before commencing a successful and well-coveted 12-year role as senior fire service advisor within Dubai Civil Defense.
Johnson has more recently operated in key private emergency service roles throughout the MENA region. Now, Terry has made the move into the vehicle production space and will work closely with North Fire’s engineering and production team, together with managing director, Oliver North, to roll out next-generation firefighting vehicles into the region, specific to the regional demands.
“Since starting in the industry in 1978 as a firefighter, I’ve been fortunate enough to have worked in some great roles, particularly in the Middle East – which I’ve enjoyed the most by far. Throughout my career, I’ve been obsessed with ensuring the firefighter is equipped with the most relevant and effective vehicles and equipment possible, to aid their ability to save life more efficiently.
“As I approach the last decade of my career, I’m excited to have the opportunity to be able to influence the raising of the bar of firefighting vehicle technology, specific to the region I know so well, after so many truly enjoyable years of operational service.
“Oliver and his team at North Fire are – in my opinion and without question – the most exciting company in the firefighting vehicle production sector. Their default level of passion and quality is something I can’t wait to become part of whilst operating in the region I have so much passion for.”
Terry Johnson.
North Fire recently released its new rapid intervention vehicle (RIV) from its UK headquarters as part of a new fire service contract, and are set to secure further contracts in the RIV space in the coming months. Simultaneously, North Fire commenced the development of an exciting vehicle concept for MENA which is due for launch in Autumn.
Oliver North, Managing Director, North Fire commented: “Since commissioning our new factory at the start of 2024, we were keen to get out of the blocks early in the most relevant and impactful way possible for the firefighting vehicle sector.
“Terry brings a level of experience and local understanding for the MENA region which I genuinely think is unparalleled in the sector. More importantly though, his passion and desire to improve upon the current standards completely aligns to that of us here at North Fire. It’s a very natural coming together to say the least, and I’m thrilled to get to work with him on the exciting projects due for launch very soon.”
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