Suffolk Fire Chief Jon Lacey announces retirement after 34 years

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 08:32 · Archive

Jon Lacey, Suffolk Chief Fire Officer, has announced his retirement after 34 years in the fire and rescue service.

Jon Lacey, Suffolk Chief Fire Officer and executive director at Suffolk County Council since November 2021, has announced his retirement after 34 years in the fire and rescue service. He led the emergency response to the Dunwich Heath wildfire, coordinating a national multi-agency response.

Mr Lacey's career began in 1993 as an on-call firefighter with West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. He went on to serve in operational and leadership roles across Essex, West Sussex, and at a national level.

During his time in Suffolk, Mr Lacey oversaw the return of Fire Control services to the county, the introduction of 19 new fire engines, and further investment in emergency response vehicles. He said: 'After 34 years in the fire and rescue service, I've decided that the time is right for me to retire. I've been considering it for some time, but I feel now is the right moment to focus on new challenges and spend more time with my family.'

How it is being reported

• Man at forefront of Dunwich Heath fire announces retirementThe Suffolk Fire Chief who led the emergency response to the Dunwich Heath wildfire has announced his retirement.Ipswich Star · 20 Oct, 08:00
• Man at forefront of Dunwich Heath fire announces retirementThe Suffolk Fire Chief who led the emergency response to the Dunwich Heath wildfire has announced his retirement.East Anglian Daily Times · 20 Oct, 08:00

In this story: Jon Lacey · Suffolk County Council · Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service · Dunwich Heath · West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service

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