Former Lioness Michelle Hickmott Appointed Deputy Chief of Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service

Michelle Hickmott, a former England Lioness, has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief Fire Officer for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. She will officially assume the role in June, following the retirement of Rob Barber and the promotion of current deputy Glynn Luznyj to Chief Fire Officer.

Extensive Experience

Ms Hickmott brings two decades of experience within the fire and rescue sector to her new position. She joined Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service as an Assistant Chief Fire Officer in 2022, having previously held significant roles in Warwickshire, London Fire Brigade – where she served as a borough commander in Kensington and Chelsea – and at The Fire Service College, where she was an instructor.

A Distinguished Sporting Career

Before her distinguished career in the fire service, Ms Hickmott was a prominent figure in women's football. As a left-back, she represented England in a 4-1 victory against Finland in 2009. Her club career included stints with Birmingham City FC, Fulham FC, Coventry FC, and Charlton FC between 2003 and 2011, after which she took on a managerial role with Birmingham Football Association.

Praise from Senior Officials

Glynn Luznyj, the incoming Chief Fire Officer, expressed his delight at the appointment, stating, "I have full confidence that she will make an excellent Deputy Chief Fire Officer and bring her wealth of knowledge and experience which will be used to make Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service stronger and fitter to deliver public services."

Staffordshire Commissioner Ben Adams also welcomed the news, commenting, "With a wealth of experience and a great track record, I'm confident that Michelle has the skills and knowledge to support the Chief Fire Officer in leading the service through its continued modernisation and keeping the communities of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent safe."