Jonathan Smith Appointed New London Fire Commissioner Following Andy Roe’s Retirement
Jonathan Smith has officially been appointed London’s new Fire Commissioner, taking over leadership of one of the world’s busiest fire and rescue services from Andy Roe, who retired earlier this year.
Commissioner Smith, a highly respected fire officer with over two decades of service, steps into the role after previously serving as Deputy Commissioner and Director of Operational Preparedness and Response at the London Fire Brigade (LFB).
From Norfolk Firefighter to London’s Top Fire Officer
Smith began his firefighting career in 2000 with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, before moving to Hertfordshire in 2008. He joined the LFB in 2019 as an Assistant Commissioner, where one of his first responsibilities was leading key operational reforms in the Brigade’s Control Room, following the Grenfell Tower Fire and recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
In recent years, Smith has overseen the Brigade’s operational response, specialist teams, and training efforts. He has served as the senior commander during multiple major incidents and led LFB’s strategic response to national events, including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of King Charles III.
“It’s an Honour to Lead the Brigade”
Speaking on his appointment, Commissioner Smith said:
“I am incredibly proud to have been confirmed as London’s new Fire Commissioner. It is an honour to have the opportunity to lead our great organisation through its next chapter as we continue to build on the progress we have made.
Andy Roe’s leadership brought improvements and important reforms, and I’m committed to building on this work. The Brigade is not complacent, and we know there’s still more to do.”
He added:
“Leading the Brigade, whether working with frontline firefighters, control officers, our fire safety teams and fire investigators or our HQ staff, is a real privilege. Together we can meet the challenges ahead and continue improving how we serve and protect London’s communities.”
Andy Roe’s New Role
Outgoing Commissioner Andy Roe, who served in the capital for more than 20 years, is now heading up a new arms-length government body under the Ministry of Housing, focusing on building safety reform.
Roe is widely credited with spearheading cultural and operational reforms within the Brigade following the Grenfell tragedy and has been praised for his leadership during some of the most complex challenges the service has faced in recent years.
