The West Midlands Fire Service has been embroiled in controversy as fire chief Oliver Lee has been fired after withdrawing his resignation. Lee, who was brought in as the interim chief executive in March, received an email notifying him of his termination. This decision was made during a private meeting of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, composed of 15 local councillors, who were deliberating on the grounds of his suspension.
A Section 5 legal notice was issued accusing Lee of acting unlawfully and beyond his powers, leading to his initial suspension. Last week, Lee resigned upon learning of his suspension, only to change course over the weekend and request to withdraw his resignation. This sudden reversal threw the authority into disarray, prompting a delay in their monthly meeting as they discussed the implications.
Following the private deliberations, the Fire Authority declined to comment on the outcome, while Lee took to LinkedIn to announce the termination of his employment. He expressed disappointment at the lack of duty of care he perceived from the organization, despite his efforts to bring about positive change. The circumstances surrounding the death of former chief fire officer Wayne Brown and the aftermath have led to increased scrutiny from the Home Office and a full review of governance by the fire service Inspectorate.
With Lee’s departure, the search for a new chief officer continues, and Deputy Chief Fire Officer Simon Barry is currently leading the department. The Fire Authority is also without a chair following the resignation of Cllr Greg Brackenridge, who stepped down amidst controversies related to his military service. The unfolding events mark a tumultuous period for the second largest fire service in the country, with questions lingering about its leadership and governance moving forward.