Published 30 June 2026
Nikki Richards joins NFCC as Chief Operating Officer
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is pleased to announce that Nikki Richards has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer and will join the organisation this week (Wednesday 1 July).
Nikki joins NFCC from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, where she has served for 12 years, most recently as Deputy Chief Executive. Nikki will play a key role in helping NFCC deliver its priorities and further strengthen support for fire and rescue services across the UK.
Phil Garrigan, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said:
“I’m really pleased to be welcoming Nikki to NFCC. She’s a fantastic leader – someone who consistently delivers, but just as importantly, really cares about people and how we create the right environment for them to thrive.
“I’ve always been impressed by Nikki’s passion for fairness and her drive to tackle inequity wherever she sees it. That really matters to us as an organisation, and it’s a big part of the leadership we want to show across the sector.
“As we continue to evolve and take on new challenges, I’m really looking forward to working with Nikki. She brings a great mix of energy, credibility and values, and I know she’ll make a big difference for NFCC and the services we support.”
Nikki Richards said:
“Throughout my career, I have been passionate about public service and creating positive change.
“I am really looking forward to getting started at NFCC and to working with colleagues across the organisation, fire and rescue services and partner agencies to help deliver the organisation’s priorities and support the sector in meeting the challenges ahead.”
ENDS