Fire Safety Manager

The University of Chester is seeking an experienced and proactive Fire Safety Manager to lead and continuously improve fire safety arrangements across a diverse estate, including historic buildings, student accommodation, laboratories, teaching facilities, public spaces and major capital projects.

This is a high-profile role with responsibility for shaping fire safety strategy, standards and assurance within a highly collaborative, integrated risk-management framework. Working closely with senior leaders, managers and project teams, you will provide expert advice, drive compliance and support the delivery of safe and resilient environments for staff, students and visitors.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the University's fire risk assessment programme and oversee the delivery of risk reduction and improvement plans.

Provide specialist fire safety advice across refurbishment, maintenance and capital development projects.

Develop and deliver fire safety training, guidance and awareness initiatives.

Support emergency planning, evacuation arrangements and exercise programmes.

Develop and enhance fire safety policies, procedures and management systems.

Monitor compliance, provide assurance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

About You:

You will be an experienced fire safety professional with a strong demonstratable track record of managing fire safety within a large and complex UK organisation. You will combine technical expertise with excellent communication and influencing skills. You will be able to translate legislative requirements into practical solutions while building effective working relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

You will have:

Experience leading fire risk assessment programmes and associated improvement plans.

Strong knowledge of UK fire safety legislation and recognised guidance.

Practical experience developing fire safety policies, management systems and assurance arrangements.

Experience developing and delivering fire safety training, guidance and professional advice.

Strong stakeholder engagement, influencing and problem-solving skills.

Experience supporting emergency planning, resilience or business continuity activities.

Why Join Us:

This is more than a compliance role. It is an opportunity to directly influence organisational decision-making, lead meaningful improvement and help shape the future of a historic and ambitious university.

We offer generous annual leave and pension scheme, hybrid and flexible working opportunities, professional development and CPD support, access to health, wellbeing and sports facilities, diverse and rewarding work across a complex estate, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the safety and resilience of the university community.