The Fire Fighters Charity Chief Executive to step down next year

The Fire Fighters Charity’s Chief Executive, Dr Jill Tolfrey, announced at the Charity’s Annual General Meeting last week that she will be stepping down in Spring 2024, after 10 years in the role.

Having joined the Charity as Director of Operations in 2011, before becoming Chief Executive in 2014, Dr Tolfrey has overseen significant change across the organisation, including expansion of its in-person and community services, the development of its digital services, the £1.8m redevelopment of its Harcombe House centre and, most recently, the launch of a new Crisis Line to combat fire service suicides.

In a statement following her announcement, Dr Tolfrey said: “I am incredibly proud of my time as Chief Executive of The Fire Fighters Charity. It has been an honour to work in support of our fire family, alongside such an energetic and dedicated workforce – and with an ever-supportive Board of Trustees – to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of every single beneficiary.

“Of course, stepping away from the Charity comes with some sadness, but as we look to begin a new strategic period in Spring 2024, I feel the time is right for someone new to take the helm and to drive the Charity forward in its ambition to achieve long term sustainability, together with continued excellence in the field of health and wellbeing.”

Chair of the Board of Trustees, John Baines, added: ““Jill’s dedication in her Service to our Charity speaks for itself, leading change and guiding our Charity in continuous improvement across all areas of our work. Whilst we will have time ahead to recognise Jill’s contribution and wish her well for what might come next, I lead the Board of Trustees in expressing our sincere gratitude as the news of change ahead is shared.”

The process of recruiting a new Chief Executive is due to be complete by Spring. Dr Tolfrey will remain in post until a successor is appointed to ensure a smooth transition.