Jonathan Smith succeeds Andy Roe as London fire commissioner
A new boss has taken over the running of London Fire Brigade.
Jonathan Smith is the new London fire commissioner, leading one of the world’s busiest fire and rescue services.
He follows Andy Roe in the role, who has now retired after over 20 years of service in the capital as a firefighter.
Commissioner Smith began his career as a firefighter in 2000 with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, serving at Norwich City Fire Station before moving to Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service in 2008. In 2019 he joined London Fire Brigade as an assistant commissioner.
Smith’s first role at the brigade involved working to overhaul procedures and practices in the control room, following the Grenfell Tower Fire and subsequent Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations.
He also oversaw the restructuring of the brigade’s specialist capabilities, ensuring they were better integrated into the wider work of London Fire Brigade. Later, serving as assistant commissioner for fire stations, he was responsible overseeing the running, organisation and management of the brigade’s firefighters and fire stations.
Most recently he has served as the brigade’s deputy commissioner and director for operational preparedness and response. He’s also been the senior operational commander for many significant and major incidents, including operational work surrounding the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.
Upon taking his role, Smith said: “I am incredibly proud to have been confirmed as London’s new fire commissioner. It is an honour to have the opportunity to lead our great organisation through its next chapter as we continue to build on the progress we have made.
“Andy Roe’s leadership brought improvements and important reforms, and I’m committed to building on this work. The brigade is not complacent, and we know there’s still more to do.
“Leading the brigade, whether working with frontline firefighters, control officers, our fire safety teams and fire investigators or our HQ staff, is a real privilege. Together we can meet the challenges ahead and continue improving how we serve and protect London’s communities.”
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