IFE unveils 2026-27 International Presidential team
Lewis Tyler
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The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced its International Presidential team for the 2026-27 term, led by newly appointed International President Mark Reilly AFSM CMIFireE
The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has confirmed its new International Presidential team for the 2026-27 term, bringing together senior fire safety professionals to support the institution’s global mission.
The Presidential Team represents the IFE at an international level and will work to strengthen collaboration, promote the institution’s global initiatives and represent its growing international membership at major sector events and functions.
Mark Reilly AFSM CMIFireE has taken up the role of International President after serving as International President Elect for the previous year.
A longstanding member of the IFE, Reilly has held a number of roles supporting the institution’s activities in Australia, including serving as a Trustee on both the IFE’s main board and the Australia branch board. He has also served as International General Assembly Leader.
Commenting on his appointment, Reilly said: “I am honoured to take on the role of International President for the year ahead and to work alongside such a committed and experienced team. Together, we will continue to build on the strong foundations already in place, advancing the institution’s mission and supporting our global membership.
“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to James Lane for his leadership and dedication over the past year. His contribution has been instrumental in strengthening the institution’s impact, and I look forward to building on this success in the months ahead.”
Supporting Reilly will be Russ Timpson, who has been appointed International President Elect for 2026-27.
Timpson is the founder of the Tall Building Fire Safety Network, established in 2009 to improve fire safety in tall buildings. A former Royal Navy submariner and firefighter, he is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of the IFE.
Following his fire service career, Timpson worked in the aviation sector, contributing to major airport infrastructure and fire response projects. He now works as a consulting resilience engineer and expert witness.
As International President Elect, Timpson will work alongside Reilly to strengthen the IFE’s leadership capacity and support continuity between presidential terms.
Completing the team is Past International President James Lane, who will support the new leadership team through the handover of key priorities, initiatives and stakeholder relationships.
Lane will also provide ongoing guidance and serve in an advisory capacity, drawing on his experience to support the team’s decision-making.
The IFE said the three-strong International Presidential team is positioned to build on existing momentum and advance the institution’s priorities during the 2026-27 term.