Selection Process
If you are unable to download the relevant application form, please email juliet.ormerod@bedsfire.gov.uk for a copy.
Candidates will have the opportunity to join an engagement forum hosted by Andrew Hopkinson, our Chief Fire Officer to discuss what we have to offer, and to meet members of our Senior Leadership team for an informal HQ site tour.
Candidates successful at long and shortlist will be invited to attend our selection process. This will include an assessment stage, and interview stage (held on one date) and subsequently a separate Incident Command L3 assessment. (Internal candidates currently holding a valid pass at ICL3 assessment will not be required to complete this element).
In advance of the assessment/interview stage, candidates will complete remotely a personality psychometric assessment, and also prepare a strategic brief/presentation to be delivered at the interview stage.
Successful applicants at the gateway process will enter a talent pool, eligible for consideration for Area Commander posts as they arise, with anticipated vacancies from April 2026.
The pool will remain live for 12-18 months. They will be required to serve at any location in the Service, and to gain satisfactory pre-employment clearances, including an Enhanced level Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance and pass a Service Medical and Fitness Test, before appointment will be offered. Applicants appointed to a position will be required to undertake a probationary period of 6 months and to satisfactorily complete the Area Manager Development Programme.
Unsuccessful applicants will be offered detailed feedback and internal candidates will agree a development plan with their line manager.
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s recruitment and selection procedures reflect our commitment to safer recruitment, and to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of Adults, Children and Young People and all staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.
Please note: Dates may be subject to change.
Engagement Forum
All potential candidates will be presented with the opportunity to participate in an engagement forum, hosted by our Chief Fire Officer providing a better understanding of Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue service. We will also offer an opportunity to engage with our Senior Leadership Team for an informal site visit.
(Whilst we highly recommend attendance, there is no requirement to participate).
Application Form
This represents the gateway for progression to the formal selection process. A longlist and shortlist process will follow.
Longlisting Interviews and Shortlisting Process
Following longlisting, those meeting the criteria will be invited to attend a longlist interview (option via TEAMs) with members of our Senior Leadership Team.
A shortlisting process will then take place based on the outcome of the longlisting process.
Those progressing to the interview/assessment stage will be given a window to remotely complete a personality psychometric assessment. They will also will be provided with a strategic brief/presentation topic to prepare for delivery at the interview stage.
Assessment and Interview Stage
Assessment Stage:
The assessment stage will incorporate 2 activities, namely an individual media stakeholder activity with a panel (approx 1 hour activity) and a strategic level case study completed on a computer (approx 75 minutes).
Panel Interview with Presentation Stage:
Candidates will deliver a 15 minute strategic brief/presentation (on a topic previously provided) as part of the panel interview. This will assess ability to present and communicate strategies and concepts, demonstrate planning and organising abilities and delivering results. The interview will assess the candidate’s understanding of, and ability to deliver in the role of Area Commander. The interview may also assess leadership behaviours, preferences, motives and competencies.
Incident Command Level 3
This will involve a scenario incident simulation assessment. The timing of this element within the Area Commander process may vary, subject to availability.
Internal candidates that hold a valid ICS level 3 assessment will not be required to undertake a further command assessment as part of this process.