FIA confirms leadership change as focus shifts to digital future
Iain Hoey
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Appointment of new FIA general manager
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch OBE will become its new general manager on 17 September.
Andrew brings more than twenty-five years of leadership experience within the fire sector, including extensive editorial, charity and governance roles.
He has been editor of FIRE magazine since 2000 and of International Fire Professional, the Institution of Fire Engineers’ journal, since 2012.
Andrew is also the founder and host of the Excellence in Fire & Emergency Awards, launched in 2014.
The FIA said his appointment supports its wider efforts to strengthen professionalism across the fire safety sector.
Career background in the fire sector
The FIA reported that Andrew previously served as chair of the Board of Trustees of The Fire Fighters Charity between 2016 and 2020, where he became the first non-Fire Service Trustee to lead the organisation.
He is also a trustee of the Fire Service Research and Training Trust and a trustee of the Fire Sector Confederation.
The association noted that Andrew continues to serve on the Fire Sector Confederation’s advisory council.
In June 2023, Andrew was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the King’s Birthday Honours.
The FIA explained that the honour was awarded for his services to The Fire Fighters Charity and to fire safety.
FIA statement on growth and direction
FIA chief executive Ian Moore said: “The FIA has had a fantastic few years building its size and reputation with many stakeholders.
“With our new Centre of Excellence for fire safety in Northwich and with the implementation of our digital transformation platforms to increase efficiency happening this year, we are well poised to continue our growth and reputation to represent our members in raising the bar of professionalism in our industry.
“Andrew is an exciting addition to our team and his knowledge and passion for fire safety will be instrumental in our delivery and influence, and I am really looking forward to working with him.”
Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch’s comments on his new role
Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch said: “I am excited to join this great organisation that has been so influential in promoting the highest standards in fire safety.
“Having worked alongside many key people within the organisation for a number of years, I appreciate the depth of understanding, high level of expertise and unswerving commitment of members.
“Equally, I look forward to working with an outstanding team with a proven track record of excellence as we continue the journey of developing skills, knowledge and influence.”
FIA’s current priorities
The FIA stated that it is the largest fire trade association in Europe, representing companies across training, membership, and technical delivery.
It explained that the new general manager role aligns with its goals of increasing efficiency and extending professional standards within the industry.
The association added that its Centre of Excellence in Northwich and new digital platforms are intended to improve support for members.
The FIA said the appointment reflects its intention to continue building its presence as a representative body for the fire sector.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The FIA’s appointment of a new general manager is relevant to fire and safety professionals because the association sets technical and training standards across the industry.
Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch’s background in publishing, governance and sector charities highlights his experience in shaping conversations within the sector.
The FIA’s ongoing focus on digital platforms, training delivery and professional standards may influence both compliance practices and operational development across member organisations.
Professionals working within the industry will be impacted by the association’s strategic direction under his leadership.
FIA appoints Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch OBE as new general manager: Summary
The Fire Industry Association has appointed Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch OBE as general manager.
He will take up the role on 17 September.
He has more than twenty-five years of experience in the fire sector.
He has been editor of FIRE magazine since 2000.
He has also edited International Fire Professional since 2012.
He founded the Excellence in Fire & Emergency Awards in 2014.
He chaired The Fire Fighters Charity from 2016 to 2020.
He is currently a trustee of several sector bodies.
He was awarded the OBE in June 2023.
FIA chief executive Ian Moore welcomed his appointment.
Andrew Ledgerton-Lynch said he looked forward to joining the FIA.
The association said the appointment aligns with its growth plans.
It confirmed that its Centre of Excellence in Northwich remains a core project.
The FIA added that digital transformation will improve efficiency.
It said Andrew’s leadership will support its work in raising professionalism.