Leicestershire chief fire officer Rick Taylor leaving his £132,600 post

He led the service when it had to deal with some major disasters

LEICESTERSHIRE Fire Service is searching for its fourth chief officer in five years as current boss Rick Taylor is leaving his £132,663 post.

Mr Taylor is stepping down in September, bringing to an end a career of 35 years as a firefighter.

He became Leicestershire’s chief fire officer (CFO) in January 2018, and has led the service through some huge events, such as the devastating Hinckley Road explosion in February 2018 and the Leicester City Football Club helicopter tragedy in October 2018.

He was also in charge when service prepared for its first inspection from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) in over a decade when it was deemed to be needing improvement in some areas.

Mr Taylor’s fire and rescue service career began in Cambridgeshire in 1986, and during his time there he served in a variety of roles, from firefighter at Cambridge, station commander at Wisbech and Cambridge, to divisional commander of Peterborough district.

He joined Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service in February 2008.

Mr Taylor said: “It has been a real privilege leading Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service over the past few years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, as the leader of such a hardworking, tremendous organisation.

“It has been fantastic to work alongside so many inspirational and committed people, who really have the best interests of the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland at the centre of everything they do.

“However, I feel it’s the right time to move on to pastures new.

“I will miss my valued colleagues and the partner agencies across the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. I am confident the service will continue to adapt, improve and will excel in their 2021 HMICFRS inspection. We are there for everyone and anyone in their time of need.”

Chairman of the Combined Fire Authority Nick Rushton said: “Rick took over as chief officer at a difficult time for the Service.

“He had to stabilise it and make some necessary changes. I am grateful to him for all that he has done for the service, not just as chief officer, and wish him all the best for the future.”