London’s New Fire Chief: Andy Roe Takes Charge
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has named Andy Roe as the capital’s new Fire Commissioner. Roe steps in on 1 January 2020, following an intense global search for the perfect candidate.
Tasked with Tough Transformation
Roe replaces Dany Cotton, who announced her departure last week after serving as Commissioner. His mission? To lead a major overhaul of the London Fire Brigade (LFB). Working closely with Deputy Mayor Fiona Twycross, Roe will tackle the critical reforms demanded by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase One report — and gear up the Brigade for Phase Two.
He’ll also spearhead the next London Safety Plan. This blueprint covers everything from tackling fires and terrorist threats to installing smoke alarms and rescuing accident victims across the city.
Firefighter with Real Frontline Experience
Andy Roe isn’t new to heroics. A former British Army officer, he joined LFB in 2002, rising through the ranks from frontline firefighter at Clerkenwell and West Hampstead to Assistant Commissioner in 2017, before becoming Deputy Commissioner for Operations last month.
- Commands 103 fire stations
- Leads 5,000 firefighters and staff
- In charge during major incidents like the 2016 Croydon tram crash
- Revoked ‘stay put’ advice at Grenfell Tower minutes after taking control
Leadership Promises From All Sides
Sadiq Khan: “Keeping Londoners safe is my number one priority. Andy Roe is hugely experienced and the right choice to lead the Brigade through much-needed reform.”
Andy Roe: “It’s a huge privilege to lead London Fire Brigade. I’m committed to protecting all Londoners and tackling the challenges ahead, especially implementing the Grenfell Inquiry’s recommendations.”
Fiona Twycross, Deputy Mayor: “Andy knows the job inside out. I’m proud of our firefighters and confident he will lead the best possible service to keep London safe.”
With Roe at the helm, London’s Fire Brigade aims to rise stronger, smarter, and more diverse — ready to face the fires and crises of the future head-on.
