New Deputy Chief Fire Officer Appointed

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have appointed a new Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) following a rigorous selection process.

Michelle Hickmott has been appointed as DCFO and will take up her new role in June, when Chief Fire Officer Rob Barber retires from the service and current DCFO Glynn Luznyj takes his post.

Michelle brings with her more than two decades of experience within the fire and rescue sector, having served in Warwickshire, London and at The Fire Service College.

In 2022, she joined Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service as Assistant Chief Fire Officer, where she has played a key role in shaping and strengthening the organisation’s strategic direction.

Chief Fire Officer designate, Glynn Luznyj, said: “I am absolutely delighted for Michelle, as I have full confidence that she will make an excellent Deputy Chief Fire Officer and bring her wealth of knowledge and experience which will be used to make Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service stronger and fitter to deliver public services.

“Michelle has been an excellent Assistant Chief Fire Officer and will help us to continue to build our services for the future – whatever the challenges we may face.”

Michelle’s appointment marks an important step in our ongoing commitment to strong leadership, continuous improvement, and delivering the highest standards of public safety across Staffordshire.

Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams, said: “I’m delighted that Michelle has been confirmed as Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer.

“With a wealth of experience and a great track record, I’m confident that Michelle has the skills and knowledge to support the Chief Fire Officer in leading the Service through its continued modernisation and keeping the communities of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent safe.”