Overview
We lead the UK’s diplomatic, development and consular work around the world. We employ around 17,000 staff in our global network of 281 offices worldwide. Our UK-based staff work in King Charles Street in London, Abercrombie House in East Kilbride and in Milton Keynes.
When you join us as the Senior Overseas Fire Safety Officer you’ll take responsibility for leading and conducting a fire safety operating model review, and implementing a new fire safety structure for our extensive overseas estate. You’ll develop training and awareness campaigns to drive improvements in competence and work to improve operational fire safety across overseas networks. You’ll also develop assurance reporting processes for governance and lead an overseas fire safety working group to support a communications strategy.
We estimate that you’ll be travelling overseas about one week in eight; exact frequency and locations will be agreed in advance.
Responsibilities
* Lead and conduct a fire safety operating model review and implement a new fire safety structure for the overseas estate.
* Develop training and awareness campaigns to improve competence in fire safety.
* Improve operational fire safety across overseas networks and develop assurance reporting for governance and oversight.
* Lead an overseas fire safety working group and support an innovative communications strategy.
* Advise on fire safety aspects of large overseas projects; track risk and progress mitigations to an acceptable level.
* Report and escalate areas of operational concern; liaise with other departments to align with security constraints.
* Conduct inspections and audits to ensure Health & Safety compliance; work with service delivery partners to manage fire risk.
* Travel overseas as required with frequency agreed in advance.
Qualifications and experience
* Member of the Institute of Fire Engineers or equivalent; be working towards recognised qualifications (e.g., Level 3 or 4 Diploma in Fire Science and Fire Safety, or relevant building industry qualifications).
* Strong knowledge of current fire safety management principles and problem-solving skills to apply alternative fire safety solutions and risk assessments.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to engage with diverse colleagues and manage competing workloads in a fast-paced environment.
* Thorough understanding of Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order and Fire Safety England Regulations, or the Approved Document B, Fire Strategies, BS9999, RRFSO, BS5839, and UK statutory compliance for an operational estate.
* British citizenship and eligibility to obtain Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance (DV clearance process can take ~3 months).
Salary, location and type
* Pay: £46,000.00–£48,000.00 per year
* Work Location: In person
* Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
* Location: United Kingdom (overseas travel as part of role)
Closing date
Closing date: 27 October 2025.
Additional information
We welcome applications from all communities. The Civil Service pension is available, and we provide support to develop skills and capabilities for life in and out of work.
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