Group Commander – Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service

HEREFORD & WORCESTER FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE (HWFRS)
Group Commander

Salary: Group Commander B in line with NJC Grey Book pay scales plus 20% flexi duty allowance.
Location: The role will be based across the Herefordshire and Worcestershire area with HQ based at Hindlip Hall, Worcester, WR3 8SP.
Contract: Full time, permanent plus pension and benefits including provided car with option for personal use, subject to taxation and mileage charges.

Closing date: 12:00 Noon Friday 20th November 2026.

Eligibility to apply

In order to apply, you must meet the following criteria at the point of application:

• Be a competent UK Local Authority Station Commander or role above
• Be able to demonstrate previous or current competence at Levels 1 & 2 command
• Pass a Level 3 Command Assessment if not already held
• Be eligible to live and work in the UK without restrictions
• Have had an appraisal in the last 12 months, unless not applicable to your organisation
• Not have any live formal disciplinary sanctions or history of serious misconduct
• Should not have been dismissed by another Fire and Rescue Service on the grounds of serious misconduct or capability.
• Must be able to pass all relevant and required vetting processes
• Not be in a formal capability process
• Be medically fit to undertake the role, and pass the medical and annual fitness test

You will also be required to hold a valid driving licence and be eligible to drive in the UK and must be able to pass an emergency response driving qualification. You must be able to provide a response base for the performance of standby / call-out duties. This base must be within the geographical area of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and acceptable in terms of location within the counties.

Selection process
Applicants will complete an online application form, including a statement evidencing your suitability, skills and qualifications for the role. Shortlisted applicants will then be asked to attend a selection stage comprising of a middle manager assessment day, a decision-making exercise and an interview.

Pre-employment checks will also be required including security clearance vetting (Non-Police Personnel Vetting (NPPV) Level 2 Abbreviated) and you may be required to pass advanced national vetting processes (for example SC level) as a requirement for the role. Successful candidates may be required to attend a conversion and induction training programme.

Full details of the role and selection process can be found in the job description and person specification and candidate guidance document.

Further information
Interested candidates are welcome to meet or discuss the role with a member of the panel and arrange a visit to HWFRS. This can be arranged by emailing Tracey Hedges THedges@hwfire.org.uk.

If you have any questions regarding the process or you are experiencing any difficulties with your application, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@hwfire.org.uk before the closing date.