Cutting-edge professional practice in the fire and rescue sector

It was during the second national strike of 2002/03 that I determined as editor to ensure that I would accept only the word of those that had been in the room, if I could not be in attendance myself. As sparingly few would ever be invited to the higher echelons of some of those meetings – dusty Whitehall days of off-the-record briefings set in oak panelled chambers have not entirely been confined to history – it set a high bar and one that I have steadfastly refused to lower.

Relying upon a small network of well-placed correspondents, contributors and advisors has ensured FIRE magazine’s first-hand, first-rate coverage continues to inform, engage and hopefully inspire readers. But make no mistake, if you have ever been in one of those highly-charged rooms, the learning never leaves you and there is much to be garnered from those who have been through the maelstrom of senior government-level meetings.

“Our mission [is] to make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge and expertise that will keep the UK at the cutting-edge of professional practice in the fire and rescue sector”

I refer to FIRE magazine publisher, Fire Knowledge, utilisting a mixture of experienced, well-informed directors and serving personnel in contributing to our vision of helping to maintain the UK’s position as a world-leader in the fire and rescue sector. This ethos underpins our mission to make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge and expertise that will keep the UK at the cutting-edge of professional practice in the fire and rescue sector.

We will achieve our mission by:

1. Publishing material in FIRE magazine that enables readers to keep abreast of current affairs and leading professional practice in the sector
2. Publishing material in FIRE magazine that introduces new thinking and ideas into the sector
3. Running events that bring stakeholders together to consider topical issues, challenge current thinking, explore new ideas and, in doing so, shape the direction of the sector
4. Delivering training courses that support those in the fire and rescue sector to continuously develop their professional practice
5. Facilitating access to high-quality consultancy services that will provide the capacity and expertise needed to achieve efficient, effective and sustainable improvement for organisations and in the professional practice of individuals.

It is with this experience, insight and the often under-rated virtue of the wisdom of hindsight that Fire Knowledge is approaching senior recruitment in the fire and rescue sector, as explored in the article below by former Chief Fire Officer and Chief Fire and Rescue Advisor, Andy Fry.

See also: ‘Senior recruitment in fire and rescue: Balancing the supply and demand equation’

Fire Knowledge Network

The Fire Knowledge Network is a comprehensive, integrated support network for senior fire professionals. Our network of fire specialists offers expert guidance across the full range of fire sector disciplines, from leadership and governance to cyber-security and risk management.

The executive level leadership consultancy is designed to help fire and rescue services meet performance demands outlined in the recent tranche of HMI reports, deliver a full range of services including pre- and post-inspection support, technical guidance and advice, executive leadership development, political leadership development and independent audit and review.

The Fire Knowledge Network is supported by a wider portfolio including FIRE magazine, events and webinars, books and online resources.

www.fireknowledge.co.uk