New assistant chief fire officer for Avon Fire & Rescue Service: Luke Gazzard takes on new role
Iain Hoey
Share this content
Avon Fire & Rescue Service announces new assistant chief fire officer
Avon Fire & Rescue Service has announced the appointment of Luke Gazzard as the new Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Service Delivery.
Luke Gazzard, who has over 25 years of dedicated service with the organisation, assumed the position this month.
In his new role, Gazzard will lead the Service’s operational response, overseeing operational firefighters, control operators, and the Prevention and Protection Departments.
He will also be part of the Service Leadership Board.
Luke Gazzard’s career and vision for the role
Luke Gazzard expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating: “After a tough recruitment process, I’m excited to have been successfully appointed as the Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Service Delivery.
“As I take on this new role, I’m keen to ensure that people, professionalism, and pride are the golden thread through everything I do.”
Gazzard has been with Avon Fire & Rescue Service since 1999, starting as a firefighter on Avonmouth Red Watch.
He has served in various capacities, including roles at Southmead, Bath, and Patchway, and as a Station Manager in Learning and Development.
He also worked in Risk Intelligence and was the Area Manager Head of Operational Response before leading the Service Improvement Team over the past year.
Support from leadership
Chief Fire Officer Simon Shilton expressed his support for Gazzard’s appointment, saying: “We are thrilled to have Luke accept this position within the Service.
Luke brings a wealth of experience to the Service Leadership Board.
His passion and dedication to the sector will be vital in driving our Service forward.”
Shilton also noted the competitive nature of the recruitment process, highlighting Gazzard’s exceptional performance and leadership skills.
He added: “I look forward to working with him closely to make our Service stronger and our communities safer.”
Luke Gazzard’s goals for the future
Looking ahead, Luke Gazzard is focused on continuing to influence positive changes within the Service.
He remarked: “Throughout my career, I’ve seen many changes in Avon Fire and Rescue Service and the wider sector.
I’m looking forward to working closely with all of our staff to influence our journey as we move forward.
As I join the Service Leadership Board, I’m excited to be a part of the strategic change as we work towards being the best Service that we can be.”
Gazzard’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the operational and strategic initiatives of Avon Fire & Rescue Service, ensuring that the organisation continues to evolve and improve.
