Director Of People & Culture

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) serves the entire community, a population of 1.9 million in an area of over 5,500 square miles. NIFRS has a proud tradition and history of serving the community with distinction. 

NIFRS wish to invite applications for the following role:

Director of People & Culture - Job Ref: N053/08/2026
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The successful applicant will form part of the organisation’s Executive Leadership Team (ELT), supporting the Chief Fire & Rescue Officer (CFRO) in providing strategic leadership, influencing the vision and direction of the Service. As the Director of People and Culture you will be central to this programme of work. We are looking for a motivated leader who has a strong history of sound human resource practice and the delivery of organisational improvement programmes.

You will be results driven and have a proven track record of building strategic relationships and leading teams to deliver alongside challenging performance programmes.
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This is an excellent opportunity for suitably qualified individuals, the role comes with an excellent benefits package including on-site parking, flexible working, generous holidays and gym facilities on-site.

Hours of work;
Currently 36¼ hours per week, Monday-Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.

A Flexible Working Hours Scheme is in operation.
In view of the level of this appointment, the postholder will be required to work in such a way as to fulfil the obligations of the post.

There is currently 1 permanent post, based at NIFRS HQ, 1 Seymour Street, Lisburn, BT27 4SX. Please note the successful applicant will be required to travel around all NIFRS locations. This recruitment and selection process will also be used to fill future vacancies, a reserve list will be created for 12 months should any additional fixed term or permanent vacancies arise (offers of posts will be made in merit order). 

Salary:
The salary scale is Director Level. The salary range is currently £91,722.09 - £97,593.62 per annum (Under Review)

All the information that you need in order to apply is provided in the candidate information pack. However, if you have any queries or require any further information please email Karen McGonigle at: karen.mcgonigle@nifrs.org or telephone 028 9266 4221 EXT 2452.

Candidates should apply online and the closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 21st August 2026. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons, irrespective of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, dependants, religion or political opinion.

NIFRS is currently under represented by women and those from the Roman Catholic Community, applications from these groups are particularly welcome. Appointment will be made solely on merit.