West Sussex Fire Gets New Deputy Chief Fire Officer
Mark Andrews has been announced today as the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
Firefighter Extraordinaire Returns Home
Mark, currently Assistant Chief Fire Officer at East Sussex Fire & Rescue since June 2016, is no stranger to West Sussex. He began his firefighting career there and has served with London Fire Brigade too, including as Lewisham Borough Commander and Deputy Assistant Commissioner.
Mark also plays a key role nationally, working with the National Fire Chiefs Council on high-risk accommodations and business engagement.
Mark Andrews Speaks Out
“West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is where I started my career and I am delighted to come back as the Deputy Chief Fire Officer at such an exciting time. While I have enjoyed my service in London and East Sussex, West Sussex is where I grew up and still live. It’s an honour to serve the county that means so much to me. I’m grateful to Neil Stocker for his tremendous work and the legacy he leaves as he retires.”
Farewell to a Legend, Hello New Leadership
Mark replaces Neil Stocker, who’s retiring in November after 29 years of dedicated service.
West Sussex Chief Fire Officer Sabrina Cohen-Hatton said: “I am delighted Mark Andrews will be the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer. His people-centred approach impressed me greatly, and I’m confident he will help us improve our service to the public.”
East Sussex Chief Fire Officer Dawn Whittaker added: “Congratulations to Mark on his appointment. We look forward to working closely together to keep Sussex safe and boost cooperation between our services.”