Fire Boss Ann Scoops OBE for Fire and Rescue Service Heroics
Ann has been handed an OBE for her outstanding service in the fire and rescue sector. A fire chief with 15 years under her belt, Ann said the award is not just for her, but for the entire team. “Everything we do, we do together – it’s always a team effort,” she said.
Transforming Kent Fire and Rescue Since 2011
As chief executive of Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) since 2011, Ann has spearheaded major improvements. She’s boosted wellbeing and inclusion, upgraded training, and introduced better equipment. Her mission is clear: provide Kent and Medway residents with top-notch protection, whether at home or out and about.
National Influence and Equality Champion
Ann’s impact stretches beyond Kent. As a leader in the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), she’s driven projects to ramp up professionalism and efficiency across UK fire services. A fierce advocate for equality and inclusion, she’s tackled barriers like language difficulties and prejudice to ensure everyone can access lifesaving services.
Remarkably, under Ann’s guidance, KFRS became the first emergency service in the UK to earn the Pride in Care quality standard for its support of LGBTQ+ people.
Passion for Saving Lives and Breaking Barriers
“I’ve worked for many organisations but there’s something so immediately rewarding about working for an emergency service,” Ann says. “We’re here to keep everyone safe, constantly looking for ways to improve services, tailor support to individual needs, and do the very best for the people we serve.”
Ann’s commitment to reducing harm and saving lives shines through. Her career is one she rightly calls “very worthy.”
