West Midlands Fire Service Gets New Boss: Ben Brook Steps In
The West Midlands Fire Authority has named Ben Brook as the new Chief Fire Officer for the West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS), bringing back a familiar face to steady the ship. Brook, currently Warwickshire’s Chief Fire Officer since 2021, returns to WMFS where he once served as Assistant Chief.
Turbulent Times Call for Steady Leadership
Brook’s appointment, set for confirmation on November 25, comes after a rocky period for WMFS. Interim chief Oliver Lee quit last month following a public bust-up with the Fire Authority, which faced a vote of no confidence over its leadership. On top of that, the Authority’s Chair resigned amid scandal over false military claims.
Now, Brook is tasked with calming the chaos. Since starting his fire service career in 2001, Brook climbed the ranks at WMFS, becoming Assistant Chief in 2019 before taking the top job in Warwickshire. His return signals a fresh start for a service recently slammed by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) over governance problems.
A Vision for a Safe West Midlands
“My experiences at both Warwickshire and West Midlands Fire Services have shaped how I lead people and protect communities. Our firefighters take the duty of protecting and saving lives seriously and compassionately,” Brook said. “There’s a lot to do. While this is familiar territory, much has changed. But with the right staff, facilities, and ambition, we can keep making a real difference for West Midlands communities.”
Acting Chair of the Fire Authority, Councillor Catherine Mika, praised the new CFO’s plans:
“Ben put forward an exciting vision for WMFS. It’s been a turbulent year, but the panel is confident he can lead the service forward. We look ahead to working together to boost staff morale and keep safe the three million people WMFS serves with pride.”
Brook’s official start date is yet to be announced.
