In a significant development of fire and rescue services in the Southwest, Gavin Ellis has been appointed as the permanent Chief Fire Officer for Devon and Somerset. The decision was made by the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority during their meeting on 10 June 2024.
Ellis has been serving as the interim Chief Fire Officer since May 2023, taking over from Lee Howell, who is set to retire in September after a secondment at the National Fire Chiefs Council. Howell’s departure marks the end of a remarkable 16-year tenure as Chief Fire Officer.
At the same meeting, Councillor Simon Coles was elected as the Chair of the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority.
A Career of Dedication and Excellence
Gavin Ellis began his career in the fire service at the age of 19 when he joined Northamptonshire Fire Service in 2000. He transferred to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service in 2010 as a Station Manager. Over the years, he has held various positions, demonstrating his dedication and leadership skills.
Between 2011 and 2017, Ellis was promoted to Group Manager, working across several roles within the Service. In 2016, he led a team that produced an external report on the Royal Clarence Hotel fire in Exeter, showcasing his ability to manage complex situations.
In 2018, Ellis was seconded to Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) where he led teams in delivering the first round of independent inspections as Chief of Staff.
Ellis returned to Devon and Somerset in January 2020 and was appointed Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Director of Service Improvement, in July 2020. He played a pivotal role in driving service performance and preparing the launch of the 2022/2027 Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP). In March 2022, he was promoted to Deputy Chief Fire Officer before stepping into the interim Chief Fire Officer role in May 2023.
Leadership at a Crucial Time
Gavin Ellis’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, as it continues to support community safety amid financial challenges. The Service aims to provide effective support to people at home, at work, on the road, and to visitors across the two counties.
Commenting on his appointment, Ellis said, “It has been the privilege of my career to lead the service over the last twelve months on a temporary basis, to have been appointed permanently and to be able to continue this is truly fantastic. I am proud of the Service, the people who work within it and what we stand for in delivering our services to communities and partners. I will continue to work hard to provide the best service to those who live and work in Devon and Somerset or visit our two beautiful counties.”
Acknowledging a Legacy
Councillor Simon Coles, the newly elected Chair of the Fire Authority, expressed his confidence in Ellis’s leadership. “I am delighted to confirm Gavin as the permanent Chief Fire Officer after a rigorous and competitive selection process. He brings significant experience and has proven himself to be a strong strategic leader. I look forward to working closely with him as we strive to make people living in or visiting our counties even safer. On behalf of the Fire Authority, I want to say thank you to Lee Howell who leaves an enormous legacy in the 16 years he has been Chief Fire Officer.”
Conclusion
Gavin Ellis’s appointment is seen as a positive step forward for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. His extensive experience and commitment to service improvement are expected to guide the Service towards achieving its goals and maintaining the safety of the communities it serves.
For more information on safety advice, visit the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service website.
