Following an open and vigorous recruitment process, the Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority has today (15 November 2023) announced that Louise Harrison will be appointed as Chief Fire Officer (CFO) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Cllr Simon Rouse, the Chairman of Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority, said
“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Louise Harrison as the new Chief Fire Officer and Chief Executive Officer of Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service. In a field of high calibre applicants, Louise’s track record of transformational leadership, passion for creating a high-performance culture and commitment to public safety stood out. This is an exciting moment for the Service. The Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Fire Authority are very much looking forward to supporting Louise in her leadership of the Fire Service, which plays such a vital role in protecting our communities.”
Louise joins us after working in policing for over 31 years most latterly as the Director of Operations for the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) to join Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service (BFRS) as CFO and CEO.
During her career she has undertaken a variety of uniformed and specialist roles, and has a wealth of experience in community safety, partnership and multi-agency working. Her previous experience has seen her working alongside Fire & Rescue Services in a variety of roles including collaboration projects and key local authority initiatives. As well as working at a national level in public safety, Louise has worked regionally including as Strategic Prevent Lead within the Counter Terrorism Northwest unit.
On her appointment, Louise has said
‘” I am absolutely delighted to be joining Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service. I am genuinely excited to be returning to the community I grew up in. It means a great deal personally, to be able to continue my commitment to public service here. I am joining a fantastic team and am confident that we can continue to meet the challenges ahead and continue a journey of positive improvement, delivering a quality service to the communities of Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.”
Louise will commence her role on 4 December 2023. Mick Osborne will return to his role as Deputy Chief Officer / Chief Operating Officer.
