West Midlands Fire Service governance "wholly impossible" in damning new statement from fire chief
Oliver Lee, the current fire chief at West Midlands Fire Service issued a statement online to say he would not apply for a permanent role.
Last updated 16th Sep 2024
The current fire chief at West Midlands Fire Service has issued a damning statement as he announces he isn't applying for a permanent role, saying the service's governance is "wholly impossible".
Oliver Lee took over after the former CEO, Wayne Brown, unexpectedly died in January. He was found in his home in Birmingham on 24 January.
In a statement on LinkedIn, Mr Lee said: "I have had a lovely half year leading as best I can West Midlands Fire Service, off the back off awful circumstances.
"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.
"I really hope that someone can take it forward. 1,900 good people deserve this."