Election results reveal Fire Brigades Union leadership change

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has elected Steve Wright as its new general secretary, following an election held between 10 December 2024 and 14 January 2025.

A total of 8,648 members participated in the election, representing a turnout of 29%.

Wright secured 59% of the vote with 5,188 votes, defeating incumbent Matt Wrack, who received 3,436 votes (41%).

Wright’s term as general secretary begins immediately.

Wright’s extensive career in the FBU and fire service

Steve Wright has been a member of the Fire Brigades Union for over 20 years.

He began his career in 2001 with Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service at the age of 18 before transferring to Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2006.

Within the FBU, Wright served as Vice President since 2023 and represented the Southern region as an Executive Council member.

He first became active in union leadership during the 2002-3 pay campaign as a branch representative.

Incoming general secretary outlines vision for the Union

Steve Wright addressed Union members following his election: “I am deeply honoured to have been elected as general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, and I want to thank all FBU members who participated in this election.”

He committed to working with the Executive Council and union officials on key issues, including pay, pensions, and working conditions.

Wright also highlighted priorities such as campaigning for better investment and national standards in fire and rescue services.

“Our union has a proud history of standing together, and recent campaigns have shown what can be achieved through unity and determination,” Wright said.

Matt Wrack reflects on two decades of leadership

Outgoing general secretary Matt Wrack expressed pride in his tenure, which spanned 20 years and saw eight UK prime ministers in office.

Wrack highlighted achievements under his leadership, including the FBU’s successful campaigns for a 16% pay rise over the last three years, significant maternity pay progress, and securing improvements for retained duty firefighters.

He also underscored the importance of the union’s DECON campaign addressing fire contaminants and the broader fight for equality within the sector.

Reflecting on his departure, Wrack said: “I leave the FBU with my head held high.

“Since the age of 16, I have been an active anti-racist, anti-fascist.

“I became a socialist as a teenager, and I have been a trade unionist all my working life.

“My views and values have not changed, and I will continue that fight.”

Steve Wright becomes Fire Brigades Union general secretary: Summary

Steve Wright has been elected general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, receiving 59% of the vote during an election held between December 2024 and January 2025.

With over two decades of FBU membership and a career spanning Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire fire services, Wright has served as Vice President since 2023.

Outgoing general secretary Matt Wrack reflected on his 20-year tenure, citing achievements in pay negotiations, equality, and safety campaigns.

Wright’s term begins immediately, with priorities including pay, pensions, and improving national standards in fire and rescue services.