West Midlands Fire Service announces second new chief in days after latest sudden withdrawal

The authority announced on Thursday (November 14) that Simon Tuhill, deputy chief fire officer at Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue, was to be its new chief.

Ben Brook, chief at Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, was appointed in the role last week but withdrew four days later after deciding there was "work still to be done" in Warwickshire.

West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) said it approached Mr Tuhill to take on the role which he had "no hesitation" in accepting.

The newly appointed boss said: "It is an honour to take on the leadership mantle of West Midlands Fire Service – truly, too good to turn down.

"The opportunity to lead, manage and develop a service so dedicated to protecting the West Midlands is very special and I am so pleased to be accept this opportunity.

“WMFS has an excellent reputation for its prevention, protection and response capabilities and it will be a privilege to walk through the door as the chief fire officer for the first time.

“I know how hard staff have worked in difficult circumstances throughout 2024.”

Mr Tuhill's appointment as chief is expected to be ratified by the Fire Authority on November 25.

He added: "I feel I am well placed to lead the service through this current period of uncertainty. I commit to always keeping our staff at the heart of my decision making, because the people who work for WMFS, and their dedication, are what make it special.

“I’m so excited to work in such a diverse and vibrant place as the West Midlands.

"...I know there are a range of challenges facing the service in the coming months, I look forward to working with the Home Office and Local Government Association to help improve oversight and scrutiny."

The fire service has been under the spotlight in recent months after Oliver Lee, its interim chief executive, and chairman of the West Midlands Fire Authority, Councillor Greg Brackenridge, both left their posts.

Mr Lee had taken on the role in March after former chief fire officer Wayne Brown was found dead at his home in January.

Councillor Catherine Miks, vice chair of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority acknowledged the swift exit of Mr Brook after his appointment in the role last week had lead to "uncertainty".

She said: “Simon interviewed exceptionally well, setting out a clear vision for what he sees as the priority for the service – its people.

“On behalf of WMFS, I want to reiterate that we fully respect chief fire officer Brook’s personal decision to remain in Warwickshire, whilst recognising it did lead to further uncertainty.”