Royal Berkshire Fire Authority has successfully concluded its search for the next leader of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS). Wayne Bowcock (left) will be joining the service following the retirement of its current Chief Fire Officer, Trevor Ferguson, in July 2021.
Wayne will join RBFRS in June to ensure a smooth transition, before Trevor’s departure. Wayne joins the service from his current role as Chief Fire Officer and Director at Gloucestershire County Council. Wayne was selected following an extensive and rigorous process.
Wayne brings a wealth of experience to the role and he will be well placed to lead the Service, building upon the positive work highlighted in the most recent inspection by HMICFRS, leading the service through the next stage on its journey of continuous improvement.
On accepting the position, Wayne said, “I am extremely honoured and excited to be selected to lead Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service on the next stage of its journey. The progress made in the last few years is fantastic and I look forward to working with the excellent staff and fire authority members to build upon and continue that improvement and to serving the people of Royal Berkshire together.”
Councillor Colin Dudley, Chairman of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said, “I am thrilled we have been able to offer the position of Chief Fire Officer to an individual of such exceptional calibre. Wayne has an outstanding record and will be focused on providing the best possible service to the people of Royal Berkshire. I look forward to Wayne joining the team later in the year.”
The appointment will be ratified at the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority meeting on 24 March.
