New NFCC Chair to take office in April 2025

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has announced that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 at the conclusion of his four-year term.

The NFCC recently held an election to select Hardingham’s successor, with the process open to all currently serving UK Chief Fire Officers and those who have served in the past two years.

The election, conducted among NFCC members, took place throughout September.

The results of the election were finalised during the NFCC Board of Trustees meeting on Friday 4 October, where it was confirmed that Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, will take on the role of Chair in April 2025.

Phil Garrigan’s career and leadership in Merseyside

Phil Garrigan has been with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service since 1990, serving in various roles across community fire stations.

His work has largely focused on some of Merseyside’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged areas.

Garrigan has consistently emphasised the importance of community engagement in reducing risks, recognising the unique position of trust held by the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS).

He has effectively utilised this trust, along with the professionalism of the Merseyside FRS staff, to address the underlying causes that contribute to fire risks.

In his role as Chief Fire Officer, Garrigan has led the Service to achieve its lowest recorded number of fire-related deaths.

He has also introduced a performance management framework designed to foster continuous improvement across all aspects of the Service.

National roles and strategic contributions

Beyond his work in Merseyside, Phil Garrigan plays a pivotal role in national fire and rescue efforts.

He is currently the Vice Chair of the NFCC and serves as the National Lead for Fire and Rescue Services concerning children and young people.

Additionally, he is a member of the NFCC’s Operations Coordination Committee, where he oversees national resilience capabilities on behalf of the Home Office.

This role includes providing strategic guidance during significant national events, including the UK’s response to COVID-19.

His comprehensive experience gives him a broad understanding of the sector, making him a key figure in national fire and rescue operations.

Garrigan has also been instrumental in shaping the sector’s approach to working with children and young people (CYP).

Under his leadership, the Fire and Rescue Service has transformed the lives of hundreds of young people across the UK.

Mark Hardingham reflects on his time as NFCC Chair

Mark Hardingham, who has served as NFCC Chair since 2021, has overseen various initiatives and developments in the UK fire and rescue sector during his time in office.

His term saw several key reforms and the council’s role in shaping fire safety and response policies nationwide.

Hardingham said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the NFCC. I look forward to supporting Phil as he takes up this important role.”

Phil Garrigan’s leadership approach and community involvement

Garrigan’s leadership has extended beyond firefighting, as he has been deeply involved in governance and community-based initiatives.

Since becoming Chief Fire Officer, he has reformed the governance structure of the Merseyside Service and introduced a People Plan.

This plan reflects his inclusive management style, ensuring that all staff members are involved in decision-making processes.

In addition to his work within the Fire and Rescue Service, Garrigan is committed to youth development.

He serves as a Trustee and Board member for the Hive Youth Zone and Firefit Hub and acts as an Ambassador for the Cash for Kids charity.

Phil Garrigan to succeed Mark Hardingham as NFCC Chair in April 2025: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has confirmed that its current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025 after completing his term.

Phil Garrigan, Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, has been elected as the new Chair following a vote by NFCC members.

The election results were ratified by the NFCC Board of Trustees on 4 October.

Garrigan will officially take over in April 2025.

He brings extensive experience from his time in Merseyside, where he has focused on community risk reduction and youth engagement.

Garrigan currently serves as the NFCC Vice Chair and is involved in national-level fire and rescue operations.