The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has announced the appointment of a new Chief Officer. Following an extensive recruitment process, Stuart Stevens, the current Deputy Chief Officer (DCO), will take up the role later this year.

DCO Stevens, who will assume his new position on November 1, brings over 26 years of experience to the role. His appointment comes in the wake of the retirement of the current Chief Officer, Ross Haggart, scheduled for October.

Stevens’ career with the fire service began in 1998 when he started as a firefighter. Over the years, he has held various significant positions, particularly after the formation of the national service in 2013. His roles have included Group Manager in the Falkirk and West Lothian Local Senior Officer (LSO) Area, National Community Safety Group Manager, and Area Commander for Prevention and Protection.

In 2019, Stevens was promoted to Deputy Assistant Chief Officer within the Strategic Planning, Performance, and Communications directorate. He then became Assistant Chief Officer and Director of Service Delivery in 2020, before taking on the roles of Interim Deputy Chief Officer in 2022 and permanent Deputy Chief Officer in April 2023.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the next Chief Officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service,” said Stevens. “I look forward to continuing our work to ensure the safety and protection of communities across Scotland.”

The SFRS has already begun the process of recruiting a new Deputy Chief Officer to fill the position Stevens will vacate.

Ross Haggart, the outgoing Chief Officer, expressed confidence in his successor: “Stuart Stevens is an exemplary leader with a wealth of experience. I am confident that under his leadership, the SFRS will continue to thrive and deliver exceptional service to the people of Scotland.”

The SFRS continues to be a critical organization in ensuring public safety and emergency response across Scotland, and the transition in leadership marks a significant moment in its ongoing mission.

For more information about the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the appointment of the new Chief Officer, please visit the SFRS website.