Devon and Somerset Fire Service Gets New Boss
Big news in the Southwest fire scene! Gavin Ellis is named the permanent Chief Fire Officer for Devon and Somerset, confirmed by the Fire and Rescue Authority on 10 June 2024.
From Rookie to Chief: Ellis’s Firefighting Journey
Ellis has been interim Chief since May 2023, stepping in for Lee Howell, who’s retiring after an impressive 16 years at the helm. Ellis started his fire service career aged 19 with Northamptonshire Fire Service back in 2000. He joined Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service in 2010 as a Station Manager, climbing the ranks steadily.
Between 2011 and 2017, Ellis held multiple roles including Group Manager. He led the investigation team for the Royal Clarence Hotel fire in exeter/" title="Exeter" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Exeter in 2016, proving his skill in handling tough incidents. In 2018, he headed teams at Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, overseeing the first independent inspections.
Ellis returned to Devon and Somerset in 2020 as Assistant Chief Fire Officer and helped launch the Community Risk Management Plan 2022–2027. By 2022 he was Deputy Chief Fire Officer before taking the interim Chief job last year.
Leading Through Challenges
Ellis takes charge at a critical time as the fire service faces financial pressures while striving to keep people safe at home, work, and on the road across two counties.
“It has been the privilege of my career to lead the service over the last twelve months on a temporary basis,” Ellis said. “Being appointed permanently to continue this is truly fantastic. I’m proud of the Service and the people who work within it. I’ll keep pushing to provide the best service to those who live, work, or visit Devon and Somerset.”
Tributes and New Beginnings
Councillor Simon Coles, the new Fire Authority Chair, cheered Ellis’s new role:
“Gavin’s appointment follows a tough selection process. He brings solid experience and clear leadership. We’re excited to work with him to boost safety for residents and visitors alike. We also thank Lee Howell for his 16 years of outstanding service and his lasting legacy.”
Ellis’s promotion signals a fresh chapter for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue. His wide-ranging know-how and drive for improvement promise a safer future for local communities.
For top fire safety tips, visit the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service website.
