Chief Fire Officer marks first 100 days in new role

Simon Shilton MBA has now completed his first 100 days in his role as Chief Fire Officer (CFO) at Avon Fire & Rescue Service.

During these first three months, Simon implemented his first Service Plan and has begun putting into place those measures which strive to deliver a high-quality, effective and efficient, value for money fire and rescue service.

Simon also outlined his priorities for the Service, which include focusing on progress against areas for continual improvement in our Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) Action Plan.

Reflecting on his first 100 days, Simon, who took up the role following the retirement of former CFO Mick Crennell, said: “It’s truly a privilege to lead the Service. I’ve been quite fortunate because the transition has been relatively smooth as I’ve been part of the Service’s ongoing improvement journey since 2017.

“Mick left the organisation with a good direction of travel – it’s really around continuing that journey and ensuring the highest level of safety for those who live and work in our communities.?It’s important as an organisation, we continue our progress in responding to the needs placed upon us and continually improve.

“Having spent most of my career at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every single day, with as much enthusiasm today as I did at the beginning and becoming CFO has been the highlight. It’s an honour to work with outstanding staff who do outstanding things every day.”

Chair of the Fire Authority, Cllr Brenda Massey said: “Following a busy start to his time as Chief Fire Officer, we look forward to working closely with Simon in delivering the Service Plan and are assured he will lead the best Fire and Rescue Service for the communities we serve.”

Another of Simon’s key plans over his first year as CFO is to continue the Service’s commitment to being an inclusive workforce, where everyone is valued and able to reach their potential and has placed great importance on productive conversations with staff. Alongside engaging with colleagues around the Service, Simon has also enjoyed joining staff at events supporting our communities, including the UK2Ukraine charity event which raised over ￡7,000 for the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal.

Simon continued: “It’s been good to get out and meet staff, having constructive conversations, both positive and recognising that we’ve still got work to do. There’s a lot to be said for listening, having empathy and talking honestly.”

You can view the full and an Easy Read version of the Service Plan here: Documents - Service Plan - Avon Fire & Rescue Service