Appointment of New Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Authority is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service.

Rick Roberts, who has been Acting Deputy Chief Fire Officer since September 2019, was appointed yesterday (8 March) by the Fire Authority Brigade Managers’ Appointments Panel, supported by Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive, Gavin Tomlinson and Deputy Chief Constable, Rachel Swann, following a robust selection process.

The married father of two from Buxton, began his fire service career at Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service in 1994 before transferring to Derbyshire in 1999.

Rick has served in many roles across the Service including operational station command, executive support and learning and development.  As an Area Manager, Rick was the Service lead for all collaborative projects.

Councillor Kevin Buttery, the Chair of the Fire and Rescue Authority said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Rick Roberts as the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service.

“Rick, who has been a longstanding valued member of the Service’s strategic leadership team, brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and skill that will ensure the Service continues to improve, whilst remaining a high achieving fire and rescue service, delivering first class efficient and effective services to the communities of Derbyshire.”

Speaking following his appointment Rick said: “It is a privilege to have been appointed as the Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Derbyshire. I am really looking forward to continuing to help lead the development of the Service, working with our dedicated staff and partners, all working to Make Derbyshire Safer Together.”

Rick will take up the position with immediate effect.

The DCFO vacancy was created in August 2019 following the successful promotion of Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Gavin Tomlinson from Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

For more information please visit: www.derbys-fire.gov.uk