Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has announced the appointment of Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton as its new Chief Fire Officer, becoming the first woman to lead the Service. She will formally step into the role later this year, following a handover with current Chief Fire Officer, Neil Odin.

Sabrina moves into the role from her current position as Chief Fire Officer at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Prior to joining West Sussex in 2019, she served in senior roles with both London Fire Brigade and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. Her outstanding contribution to the sector was recognised with the award of the King’s Fire Service Medal for distinguished service and gallantry in the 2023 Birthday Honours.

Speaking about her appointment, Sabrina said:

“I am truly honored to have been appointed to lead Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and am incredibly excited to begin this new role to ensure that the Service continues to deliver for the residents of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight."

Building on Strong Foundations

Sabrina also paid tribute to her predecessor, stating:

“I would like to formally put on record my thanks to the Service’s current Chief Fire Officer, Neil Odin, who I have been privileged to work alongside for many years. I know that his time leading the Service will leave a lasting legacy that I will work with to ensure that residents in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are kept safe from the risk of fire and emergencies."

Reflecting on her time at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, she added:

“I am incredibly proud of the time that I spent at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, where I was equally as privileged to work with some incredible people as we worked together to deliver the Service’s improvement plan. It is with a heavy heart that I leave the Service, but know that I am leaving the Service in safe hands and I take with me many fond memories and friendships."

Looking ahead, Sabrina said:

“I am very much looking forward to working with all colleagues at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to uphold all of the fantastic work that all of its teams deliver each and every day to keep the residents living and working in its communities safe.”

Endorsement from the Fire Authority

Cllr Rhydian Vaughan MBE, Chairman of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Authority, welcomed the appointment, stating:

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Sabrina as our new chief fire officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight. The role of chief fire officer is one of huge responsibility, and following our rigorous recruitment process, I am certain Sabrina is the right person to lead us forward.”

He added:

“I am very much looking forward to welcoming Sabrina when she formally joins us later this year. As a fire authority we look forward to working with her and to support her in being at the helm of this incredible organization."

An Inspirational Journey

Sabrina’s career in the fire service began at 18 years old when she joined South Wales Fire and Rescue Service in 2001. Having experienced homelessness from the age of 15 and selling The Big Issue, she found her calling to serve the community and help those in need.

In addition to being an ambassador for The Big Issue, Sabrina supports Prince William’s Homewards foundation and previously led a partnership of uniformed youth groups under the patronage of HRH King Charles (then The Prince of Wales) during her time in South Wales.

Academic and Professional Excellence

Throughout her career, Sabrina has completed several secondments, including roles with the Welsh Government, HMICFRS, and interim Deputy Chief Fire Officer in Surrey. She currently serves as the NFCC’s Improvement Chair and National Lead for Working Dogs.

Academically, Sabrina has earned a PhD in Behavioural Neuroscience after studying psychology at the Open University and Cardiff University, alongside receiving numerous honorary doctorates in recognition of her contributions to the sector.

Experience at Major Incidents

Sabrina’s operational experience includes her appointment as Deputy Assistant Commissioner at London Fire Brigade in 2015. During her time there, she played key roles in the response to major incidents, including the Westminster Bridge and Finsbury Park terror attacks, as well as the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Her research on decision-making in incident command has garnered international recognition and driven policy change globally.

Following an outstanding 34-year career in the fire service, Neil Odin will retire later this year after more than seven years leading Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.

Speaking about Sabrina’s appointment, Neil said:

“As well as her commendable and notable professional successes over more than two decades, I have also had the privilege of working with Sabrina for many years."

He added:

“Embodying our Service Values, Sabrina will bring a fresh outlook, strong leadership skills, and invaluable experience, ensuring the Service continues to adapt, improve and thrive. I know that she will find Hampshire and Isle of Wight a great place to work, and receive a warm welcome from the staff, partners and communities.”