The current Chair, Mark Hardingham, will step down in March 2025, when his four-year term concludes, and Garrigan will officially take over the position in April.

Leadership Transition in the NFCC

The election, open to all current and recent UK Chief Fire Officers, saw three highly capable candidates competing for the role. Voting took place in September, with the NFCC Board of Trustees confirming the results on 4 October 2024.

A Career Dedicated to Fire Safety

Phil Garrigan has served with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service since 1990, dedicating over three decades to protecting some of the most vulnerable communities. As chief fire officer (a role which he began in 2017), Garrigan has instilled a performance management methodology designed to drive continuous improvement. He has revised the governance of the Fire and Rescue Service and introduced a People Plan, which itself reflects Garrigan’s own inclusive management style, involving all sections of the organisation in the decision-making process.

Recognised for Excellence

Earlier this year, Garrigan was awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal by The Princess Royal at Windsor Castle, further cementing his reputation for dedication and excellence in fire safety.

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