The new deputy chief fire officer of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has been named as Steve Apter.
Currently London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner (safety and assurance) he has almost 30 years experience as a firefighter. Steve has been in command at incidents including the Westminster Bridge terror attack and the aftermath of Grenfell Tower. He is the national lead for the fire service on counter terrorism.
Steve was previously Chief Fire Officer of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and Assistant Chief Fire Officer of Hampshire.
Steve said: “I am delighted to have been offered this role with a Service that is known for setting high standards across the industry. I am looking forward to working with the chief fire officer, the authority and all the officers and crews in our common aim of keeping the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safe.”
Hampshire Fire and Rescue Authority Chairman Councillor Chris Carter said: “We are delighted to welcome Steve Apter as new deputy chief fire officer. His appointment comes after a rigorous selection process that included top performers from a variety of disciplines. We look forward to working closely with him as we move forward and encounter exciting opportunities as a service.”
HFRS Chief Fire Officer Neil Odin said: “We are delighted to recruit a deputy chief fire officer of such a high calibre. His credentials and experience will be a huge asset to the service and the public.”
Steve will take up the role later this year ahead of current DCFO Andy Bowers’ retirement in June.
