East Sussex names new Chief Fire Officer

5. ESFRS DCFO Gary Walsh

Gary Walsh, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.

Gary Walsh has been appointed as Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) from 1 October 2015. He is currently Deputy Chief Fire Officer of ESFRS having joined in 2003.

ESFA Chairman Phil Howson said, “Finding the right person for this role is vitally important for the future of the service in these challenging times. There is a great deal of work already underway which will transform the service.

“Gary Walsh has a wealth of experience, which means he can provide continuity and stability, as well as the leadership it needs to achieve the best for the communities we serve.”

Gary has recently been awarded a Queen’s Fire Service Medal for services to the Fire and Rescue Service in the Queen’s Birthday Honours. He will take up the role on 1 October 2015, after Des Prichard steps down after 14 years as Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive.