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Kent’s Chief Fire Officer Charlie Hendry is set to become President of the Chief Fire Officers’ Association (CFOA).

The appointment – which starts in June – means Mr Hendry will tackle issues affecting the service nationally and at government level. Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority (KMFRA) has taken the unprecedented step of approving Mr Hendry’s full secondment to the year-long post. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Bill Feeley will take on the Chief’s role during this period.

Mr Hendry said: “Kent Fire and Rescue Service is a top-performing service and much of the work we have done here has been used by other fire authorities as a best practice model. I’m looking forward to using the experience I have gained in Kent to ensure the United Kingdom is in the strongest position possible to provide an excellent fire service for many years to come.
My appointment comes as Kent Fire and Rescue Service embarks on a series of changes and improvements but both the Authority and I have full confidence in Mr Feeley and the team of Directors, all of whom are playing a major part in ensuring that KFRS provides an excellent service to Kent and Medway.”

KMFRA Chairman Bryan Cope said: “Mr Hendry’s appointment as President of CFOA is yet further recognition of Kent’s successes and highlights how we lead the way in providing a first -class fire service. Working at a national level will allow Mr Hendry the opportunity to feedback on issues that may affect the service in the future and this will enable us to further anticipate, plan and maintain our position as a leading Authority. We wish him all the best for this important role and welcome Mr Feeley into the position of acting Chief Executive and Chief Fire Officer - which we know he will perform with dedication and expertise.”

CFOA is the foremost official organisation for principal fire officers in the UK. Mr Hendry was previously the organisation’s Vice President and his new appointment begins on 21 June 2008. The role of Presidency is rotated on a yearly basis.

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