Head of Fire Safety

Description

• Manage the competence framework and CPD schedule for fire safety consultants.
• Provide strategic and technical input into client tenders and proposals.
• Lead peer reviews of internal priority processes.
• Lead the development, implementation, and upkeep of fire safety service products including:
• Build strong relationships with external bodies such as the Fire Authority, Building Safety Regulator, IFSM, IFE etc.
• Act as a senior point of contact for technical fire queries from clients and colleagues.
• Investigate and resolve fire-related non-conformances and systemic issues.
• Act as Ark’s lead technical authority on fire safety matters.
• Support the business in responding to serious fire-related incidents or enforcement actions.
• Undertake fire strategies and fire risk assessments for high-risk and complex buildings when required.
• Support business growth by delivering insightful thought leadership seminars/webinars.
• Support the management of the QA / validation process for all fire-related reports, ensuring both quality and efficiency.
• Help shape the long-term growth and innovation strategy of Ark’s fire safety function.
• Monitor legal, regulatory and best practice updates (e.g. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, Building Safety Act 2022, Gateway 2 & 3) and advise stakeholders accordingly.

Requirements

• Ideally holds (or working towards) a Fire Engineering degree.
• Registered on the IFSM Tiered Register of Competent Fire Risk Assessors (Tier 3) or eligible.
• Experience within consultancy or client-facing fire advisory roles is essential.
• Minimum of 8 years in a senior fire safety role, with proven experience in managing complex fire safety assessments and compliance projects.
• Deep understanding of UK fire legislation, supporting standards and approved guidance.
• Holds a minimum Level 5 fire safety qualification.
• Full membership with the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM) or IFE.
• Strategic thinker capable of aligning technical delivery with business goals.
• Comfortable with providing confident and calming advice in high-stakes scenarios.
• Commercially aware with an understanding of resource allocation, fee proposals and margin protection.
• Outstanding technical fire safety knowledge.
• Approachable, collaborative and respected by peers and external stakeholders.

Benefits

• Working with our diverse range of clients within the built environment, including residential and commercial.
• Professional Membership reimbursement
• Competitive & tailored salary and benefits package
• A wide range of benefits including Private Healthcare plan, 5% matched pension plan, 4x salary life cover, 25 days holiday with option to increase via salary sacrifice, and Perkpal - perks and reward program.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment focused on achieving excellence in compliance, risk, and health & safety
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Social events with your colleagues.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance