Service Improvement and Strategy Manager (Maternity Cover) – Tyne & Wear Fire and Rescue Service

About the role

We are seeking to fill an upcoming vacancy for the role of Service Improvement and Strategy Manager.

Reporting directly to Head of Service Improvement, you will be responsible for leading service improvement, assurance and strategic planning activities across the Service, supporting the vision and delivery of Creating the Safest Community.

The successful candidate will support our strategic goals by driving key service improvement and assurance activities, as well as supporting the HMICFRS inspection co-ordination and the wider strategic planning approach within the Service.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate a firm commitment to inclusivity, fairness, dignity and the highest standards of ethical behaviours and champion these in their day-to-day work in compliance with our ethical code of conduct.

We welcome applications from all sections of society with the necessary skills, qualifications and experience and encourage applications from underrepresented groups in our workforce or society.

As the Service Improvement and Strategy Manager you will:

• Lead and manage the Service Improvement team members, developing an understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
• Lead the Service Improvement approach through facilitation of continuous improvement activities and coordinating recommendations from a range of internal and external sources.
• Work with the Senior Management Group to provide advice, guidance, support and challenge, to ensure continuous improvement and effective collaboration across the service.

We are seeking a candidate who has demonstrable experience of:

• Significant experience of managing and leading teams, including strong performance management skills
• Experience of liaising with senior managers, both internally and with partner organisations
• Manage and coordinate complex work activities in a dynamic environment

The Selection Process

Set out below are the key dates relating to this selection process:

Stage Timeline*

Advert closes – Tuesday 7th July 2026
Notification of shortlist – Thursday 9th July 2026
Interview – Week commencing 13th July 2026

*Please note the dates and stages detailed may be subject to change

Interested in applying?

Further details can be found in the accompanying job description and person specification. You are required to submit a supporting statement of no more than 1000 words which should demonstrate how you meet the criteria stated on the person specification and job description.

Further information about our Service can be found by visiting www.twfire.gov.uk and our various social media channels.

For further information about the role, please contact Laura Brookes, Head of Service Improvement, via laura.brookes@twfire.gov.uk

Please submit your application form by no later than 12 noon on 7th July 2026