South Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s transformation programme

The Welsh Government appointed Commissioners for the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) have announced the creation of a new, fixed-term role: Director of Strategic Change and Transformation, as a part of their comprehensive Transformation Programme.

Dominic Mika has been selected for this pivotal position following an extensive recruitment process.

This process saw the involvement of staff across the Service, senior leaders, and the Commissioners.

Mika, who possesses an impressive background as a career firefighter and a serving Royal Marines Reserve officer, comes to the SWFRS with a wealth of experience and qualifications in applied leadership, emergency management, business resilience, and culture, performance management and transformation.

His most recent role was with His Majesty’s Inspectorate of the Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

Dominic Mika’s vision for transformation

In his new role, Mika will collaborate closely with the Commissioners and Chief Fire Officer within the Executive Leadership Team to spearhead the Transformation Programme.

He expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity: “I am grateful to be given the opportunity to become part of the team here at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“I am excited to work with our staff, partners, and communities.

“I also look forward to supporting the staff-led working groups that have been established to address the recommendations arising from the recent Morris Review into culture.

“I have been warmly welcomed by a service that is committed to both change and improvement.

“I would like to thank my future colleagues who volunteered to take part in my recruitment and assessment day.

“I will make sure that communication and engagement remains an important part of our Service transformation.”

Welcoming a new era of leadership and expertise

Stuart Millington, Chief Fire Officer at SWFRS, extended a warm welcome to Mika, highlighting the significance of his appointment: “The Service faces significant challenges in terms of staff trust and public confidence while we deliver the Transformation Programme.

“Appointing someone of Dominic’s calibre and experience should be a source of reassurance for staff, stakeholders, and the communities we serve.

“He brings a valuable external perspective and experience from a range of uniformed and blue light services – something advocated by the Morris Review.

“His extensive qualifications and practical experience as a leader and change manager, and recent involvement in Fire Service scrutiny and improvement, will prove invaluable to us all.”

IFSJ comment

The appointment of Dominic Mika as the Director of Strategic Change and Transformation at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service signals a progressive step towards addressing the challenges and opportunities within the Service.

Mika’s extensive background in leadership roles across various emergency services, combined with his academic credentials, positions him well to lead the transformation efforts.

His commitment to fostering a culture of communication, engagement, and continuous improvement aligns with the Service’s objectives to enhance its operational and organisational effectiveness.

This strategic move also reflects the Service’s response to the recommendations from the Morris Review, aiming to create a more inclusive, efficient, and responsive fire and rescue service.