Position Summary:

We are seeking a Principal Officer to serve as Chair of the Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) Committee:

This voluntary position requires individuals with a good understanding and appreciation of the subject area and a strong focus on leadership. The Chair will play a crucial role in guiding and championing the work of the Committee, promoting the importance of data management, digital technology, and cybersecurity within the sector. The committee has membership that includes the Chairs of the Data Board and Digital, Technology and Cyber (DTC) Board, national leads, subject matter experts, and industry and academic representatives who will provide input and advisory support.

The key responsibilities include identifying and shaping sector priorities, providing oversight of delivery across the DDaT Strategy and Roadmap, and promoting the Committee’s work across peer and industry networks.

The Chair will also become a member of NFCC Steering Group, which meets five-to-six times per year and comprises the NFCC Chair, Vice-Chairs, wider committee chairs, and devolved administration representatives, and.

The Chair will be supported by the full-time DDaT Hub within the NFCC, led by the Head of DDaT and their team, which includes two strategic leads working across data, digital, technology and cyber. While you will operate as the executive lead, the Head of DDaT will be responsible for delivery and will have delegated authority to act on your behalf where required. The Data and DTC Board Chairs will also have delegated authority to act on your behalf at the executive level.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

  • Provide strategic direction and leadership to the DDaT Committee, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s overall goals and objectives.
  • Chair Committee meetings and be the executive connection to Steering Group and Full Council
  • Collaborate with SME board members to leverage their knowledge and insights, guiding the committee’s decisions and actions.
  • Shape the strategic priorities and identify opportunities to enhance data management, digital technology, and cybersecurity within the fire and rescue sector.
  • Oversee the delivery of the DDaT Strategy and Roadmap
  • Championing and Promotion:
  • Act as a champion for the DDaT Committee within the fire and rescue sector and partner organisations.
  • Promote the importance of data management, digital technology, and cybersecurity across peer and industry networks, raising awareness of their significance for the sector.
  • Engage with key stakeholders, including senior leaders, to advocate for the adoption of best practices, national products, and advancements in data and technology-related areas.
  • Governance and Oversight:
  • Chair regular Committee meetings, fostering productive and collaborative discussions, and ensuring effective governance focused on key priorities.
  • Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among committee members and subject matter experts.
  • Monitor the implementation of committee decisions, evaluating their outcomes and promoting accountability.

Relationship Management:

  • Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including senior leaders within the fire and rescue sector, Home Office Ministers and officials, government agencies, industry experts, and technology partners.
  • Collaborate with other relevant committees, boards, and working groups to promote integration and alignment of data, technology, and cyber strategies.
  • Work closely with the Data and DTC Board Chairs, the Head of DDaT and the DDaT team to shape and deliver the DDaT strategy and roadmap.

Reporting and Communication:

  • Prepare and present reports on the progress, achievements, and challenges of the DDaT Committee to Steering Group, Full Council, senior leaders, and other stakeholders.
  • Communicate effectively with committee members, subject matter experts, and stakeholders, ensuring transparent and timely information flow.

Requirements:

  • A strong interest in leveraging the value of data, digital technology, and cybersecurity,
  • A willingness to learn, and an appreciation of the fire and rescue sector’s specific needs.
  • Excellent communication and networking skills to champion the Committee’s work and promote collaboration across industry networks.
  • Availability to commit up to two days per month to fulfil the responsibilities of the role, recognising that some periods may require more input that others.
  • Passion for advancing the use of data, digital technology, and cybersecurity within the fire and rescue sector.

The role offers a rewarding opportunity to lead the strategic development of the sector and make a significant impact in a critical area of work.