Controversial CEO at West Midlands Fire Service has resignation accepted DESPITE reversing decision
Mr Lee reversed his decision to resign from the West Midlands Fire Service yesterday, but top bosses say they accept it with "immediate effect".
Last updated 15th Oct 2024
In another blow for the West Midlands Fire Service, interim CEO Oliver Lee has had his resignation accepted, despite announcing yesterday he was reversing his decision.
Mr Lee has been publicly criticising the governance at the service over the last few weeks, with a LinkedIn post damning it as "impossible". He said: "It has been a privilege. It is a great organisation, full of terrific, well intentioned, brave people. It is a special place.
"However, I have decided not to apply for the permanent position. The governance of the organisation is wholly impossible, lacking as it does courage, transparency, care and honesty. I find this very sad in what should be, and could be, a superb public sector organisation."
Last week, it was announced he was suspended, with the service issuing a statement that read: "The issues that Mr Lee raised publicly concerning the governance of the Fire and Rescue Service will continue to be investigated independently, and reported to the Fire Authority for consideration. They will also share such findings with our external auditors, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, and other such key stakeholders as necessary."
In another twist, Mr Lee announced his decision to quit last Friday, claiming to have been threatened with legal action to stay quiet on vital subjects in the public interest.
However, during a meeting yesterday, he announced he was reversing the decision to resign.
Despite this, his resignation has now been accepted with "immediate affect".
Councillor Catherine Miks said: "Following Oliver’s (Lee) resignation last week it was necessary for the Fire Authority to accept or decline his resignation. Based upon independent legal and employment advice the Fire Authority has made a decision to accept Oliver’s resignation with immediate effect. As before, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Simon Barry will continue to lead the service until a permanent appointment to CFO/CEO is made."
She continued: "We will continue to move forward with the inspection of governance by the HMICFRS, and work with our partners and stakeholders to provide whatever additional scrutiny and insight is required."