Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (Commissioner), David Allen has selected Ben Ryder as the preferred candidate to take on the role of Chief Fire Officer.
The Chief Fire Officer selection process is conducted by a panel with a knowledge of fire and rescue services and an understanding of the service needs of Cumbria.
The Appointments Panel was chaired by Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, with support from a representative of the National Fire Chief’s Council and an independent panel member with key knowledge of the service.
As required by statutory regulations, the Police, Fire and Crime Panel will hold a confirmatory hearing on Tuesday 3 November 2026. Following that the Panel will make a recommendation to the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner about whether the appointment should be confirmed.
Commissioner David Allen, said: “I am putting forward Ben Ryder as my preferred candidate for Chief Fire Officer.
“Ben joined Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service in summer 2025 as Assistant Chief Fire Officer and took on the role of Temporary Chief Fire Officer in June 2026.
“He previously served in the Royal Air Force Fire & Rescue Service before joining Merseyside in 2001 and working his way up through the ranks.
“In 2020/21, Ben led the largest capital project Merseyside has ever undertaken developing a new training and development centre and national resilience centre of excellence. He has extensive operational experience commanding some of the most high-profile major incidents in recent memory.
“Since joining CFRS, Ben has evidenced his personal and professional commitment to Cumbria by picking up the Chair of the Local Resilience Forum and relocating with his young family to Penrith.
“He will, I am certain, ensure that Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service go from strength to strength.”
