Operational Risk Management Team Leader

Operational Risk Management Team Leader

Fire Service Headquarters, Birkenshaw, BD11 2DY

Full Time, Permanent

£34,434 – £37,280 per annum

Leading a specialist team that keeps our firefighters and West Yorkshire safer by turning vital risk intelligence into smarter, more efficient operational response. Step up and help shape the future of operational risk at West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (WYFRS)

You can help WYFRS by driving high‑quality risk information gathering, strengthening operational preparedness, and ensuring our crews are equipped with the insight they need to respond safely and effectively.

We offer an excellent package including generous holiday entitlement, family friendly policies, 37 hour week flexible working arrangements including hybrid working, local government pension scheme, free onsite parking, Sports and Social Club with free use of gym, an Employee Assistance Program and car salary sacrifice scheme.

Job Purpose:

To manage and develop the operations risk function and assist with the obligations and duties in relation to gathering risk information placed upon WYFRS, supporting safe, effective, and informed operational response across West Yorkshire.

Key Responsibilities:

You will support the development and implementation of risk management policies and procedures across West Yorkshire in line with the requirements of the FRS Act 2004, Section 7.2.D, contributing to the enhancement of risk information systems and ensuring effective dissemination of risk-related data.

You will provide training and guidance on risk information gathering and recording processes, ensuring consistent and accurate data collection across all levels.

You will provide support to Operational Risk Management Team with the assuring process and the management of risk information.

Essential requirements:

• Experience of working in a large organisation demonstrating knowledge in identifying and developing risk management plans.
• Proven ability to communicate and influence effectively across all levels, including senior management, with strong interpersonal skills and expertise in interpreting technical documentation, chairing stakeholder meetings and driving collaborative outcomes.
• Experienced in leading and influencing teams within large multicultural organisations, with a strong track record in resource planning, priority setting, and workload management. Demonstrates self-motivation and a collaborative approach, supporting team members while delivering operational objectives to agreed timescales
• Have extensive experience in working and co-ordinating effectively with internal partners at a senior level.
• Experience of developing and reviewing policy and framework documents.
• Experience in working alongside multiple internal departments.
• Exceptional planning, analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills, combined with strong organisational abilities to manage conflicting demands and consistently meet deadlines.

We offer flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working subject to managerial requirements. Whilst you will be required to work from our offices for parts of your initial training, after this you’ll work both in the office and from home as part of our ‘hybrid’ working model. Therefore, applicants must have a reliable home internet connection.

The post is subject to a Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check and the possession of a current valid driving licence.

Joining a first-rate organisation, you will have the job satisfaction of knowing each day that you are contributing to the success of one of just six metropolitan fire and rescue services in the UK, supporting around 950 firefighters who work round the clock, plus around 300 support staff, who help people and save lives.

We are a caring organisation; we promote an environment of inclusivity and learning, and welcome people from all walks of life – just as long as you can show commitment to our values such as integrity and teamwork.

For further details and to apply online please visit www.wyfs.co.uk/careers. Closing date for all applications is 29th March 2026.

We are an equal opportunities employer; we value and celebrate equality, diversity & neurodiversity and inclusion. We particularly welcome candidates from communities that are currently under-represented at WYFRS, including women, racially & ethnically diverse applicants and applicants with disabilities. We can offer support and adjustments for candidates and staff who experience barriers to work that result from health conditions or Specific Learning Differences, such as dyslexia. We are a ‘Real Living Wage’ employer.

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service are committed to the safeguarding of our staff, volunteers, visitors and the community we serve. This includes protecting vulnerable adults, children and young people from potential neglect and harm. All employees must share the same commitment.