New Chief Fire Officer for North Yorkshire confirmed

Photo: Chief Fire Officer designate Jonathan Dyson.

At a meeting of the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Panel, members confirmed that Jonathan Dyson is to be appointed as Chief Fire Officer. He will take up the role following the retirement of Jonathan Foster at the end of June.

Police Fire and Crime Commissioner, Zoe Metcalfe had previously indicated that Mr Dyson was her preferred candidate after the completion of the recruitment process.

In his personal statement to the Panel, Mr Dyson wrote, “I bring extensive experience across multiple fire and rescue services and diverse political governance models to shape my vision, strategy and intent, undertaking the challenges of transformation, inclusivity and sustainability concomitantly. As CFO, I will focus on delivering sustainable transformation through my vision, clarity and purpose. Strategic collaborations and alliances are a vital part of my vision for greater primary intervention in risk and vulnerability.”

He concluded his statement by noting, “I feel privileged to have the opportunity to serve as CFO for NYFRS, continuing to serve the public of North Yorkshire and York, focusing on the challenges of transformation, inclusivity and sustainability.”

Ms Metcalfe said in her report to the panel that she wished for the new Chief Fire Officer to take her agenda forward and deliver the change that the Service needs. “The new Chief Fire Officer will have to deliver my Fire and Rescue Plan and the new Risk and Resource Model, while continuing to drive transformational change to place the Service on a sustainable footing in the face of continuing financial challenges.”

Mr Dyson started his career in South Yorkshire, where he undertook critical roles as Head of Training and Head of Service Delivery. He joined North Yorkshire in 2020 as Director of Assurance, leading and delivering organisational change, and was appointed Interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer in 2021.