Sabrina Cohen-Hatton has been appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, becoming the organisation’s first female chief in its history.
Cohen-Hatton, who currently serves as Chief Fire Officer at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, will officially take up her new role later this year following a handover period with outgoing chief, Neil Odin.
Her appointment marks a significant moment for the service, highlighting a continued commitment to leadership diversity and operational excellence.
An Inspirational Career
Sabrina brings over two decades of fire service experience, having previously held senior roles at the London Fire Brigade, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, where she first joined at the age of 18 after experiencing homelessness.
She has been widely recognised for her distinguished service, receiving the King’s Fire Service Medal in the 2023 Birthday Honours.
Speaking about her appointment, Sabrina said:
I am truly honoured to have been appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and am incredibly excited to begin this new role.
I look forward to working with colleagues across the Service to continue delivering outstanding protection for the residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
She also thanked Neil Odin for his leadership and paid tribute to her time in West Sussex, describing it as “a heavy heart” moment to leave.
Leadership Welcomed by Fire Authority
Cllr Rhydian Vaughan MBE, Chairman of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Authority, said:
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sabrina as our new Chief Fire Officer.
The role carries huge responsibility, and after a rigorous recruitment process, I am confident Sabrina is the right person to lead us forward.”
The fire authority praised her extensive operational background, academic achievements, and strong leadership record, which will be vital as the service continues to evolve and modernise.
Notable Achievements and Service
Alongside her operational career, Cohen-Hatton has an impressive academic record, earning a PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience and receiving several honorary doctorates.
Her research into decision-making at emergency incidents has influenced fire service policies internationally.
Sabrina also acts as:
- An ambassador for The Big Issue
- A national advocate for Homewards Foundation (Prince William’s homelessness initiative)
- The NFCC’s Improvement Chair and National Lead for Working Dogs
During her time at London Fire Brigade, she commanded responses to major incidents, including the Westminster Bridge and Finsbury Park terror attacks, and supported operations following the Grenfell Tower fire.
A New Chapter for the Service
Outgoing Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin, who is retiring after a distinguished 34-year career, said:
“Sabrina embodies our Service Values and will bring fresh leadership, strong operational experience, and a deep commitment to community safety.”
He added that Cohen-Hatton would be warmly welcomed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight teams and their partner agencies.
Cohen-Hatton will officially take over leadership later in 2025 as the Service continues to enhance its community safety operations and service delivery across the region.
