London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe has announced his intention to retire after five years in the role, informing Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan of his decision. Roe, who joined the London Fire Brigade (LFB) 23 years ago as a firefighter, has led the organisation through significant reforms, a global pandemic, and a transformation of its culture and operations.

Reflecting on His Tenure

Commissioner Roe stated:
“It has been an honour and a privilege to lead London Fire Brigade. Over the past five years, supported by the Mayor of London, I have been able to lead significant change and improvement in the organisation – including the way we respond to emergencies and in our culture. Our people are now better trained and equipped for their mission to serve and protect London.”

The Greater London Authority (GLA) has begun the process to appoint his successor, with Roe’s final day yet to be confirmed.

The Mayor’s Tribute

Sir Sadiq Khan praised Roe’s leadership, saying:
“Andy Roe has done an outstanding job as Commissioner, and it has been a privilege to work with him to drive the transformation of London Fire Brigade.

“Under Andy’s leadership, LFB has made significant progress in improving its performance and culture to rebuild the trust and confidence of Londoners. The Brigade is responding to emergencies faster, is now rated as outstanding in how it responds to major and multi-agency incidents, and has fulfilled all the Phase One Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations.”

Key Achievements Under Andy Roe

1. Grenfell Tower Inquiry Recommendations:
Roe led LFB in completing all 29 recommendations from Phase One of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the first government agency to do so. Improvements included enhanced high-rise firefighting techniques, emergency evacuation training, and the deployment of advanced equipment such as drones and turntable ladders.

2. Cultural Reforms:
Roe commissioned an Independent Culture Review that introduced new values for the Brigade, a Professional Standards Unit, and an independent reporting line for staff. These measures aimed to address concerns around racism, misogyny, and homophobia within the organisation.

3. Operational Improvements:
Under Roe’s leadership, LFB recorded significant advancements in its performance, as noted in the 2024 inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS). The Brigade received multiple good and outstanding ratings.

4. Pandemic Response:
During the global pandemic, 500 firefighters were seconded to drive ambulances, and LFB delivered millions of items of PPE to communities and NHS hubs, while responding to over 156,000 calls.

5. Community Engagement:
Roe established a Community Forum, including survivors of the Grenfell Tower fire, to ensure communities affected by emergencies are properly supported.

Looking Ahead

Roe expressed gratitude for his time with LFB, adding:
“I never imagined when I joined LFB 23 years ago that I would have the honour of serving as London Fire Commissioner. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved in the past five years, which has only been possible due to the courage and determination of our people.

“There is still work to be done, and I have every confidence the Brigade will continue its strong trajectory of improvement and modernisation.”

The Commissioner’s retirement marks the end of an era for LFB, as the organisation looks to build on his legacy of reform, cultural transformation, and operational excellence.