WMFS - Key Persons


Karen Gowreesunker

Job Titles:
  • Head of Development and Inclusion

Oliver Lee - CEO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Executive Officer
  • Strategic Leader and Chief Executive
Oliver has a lifelong interest in leadership, public service, and organisational culture; he has written and spoken regularly on these subjects. Oliver is a highly experienced strategic leader and chief executive. He commanded 45 Commando in Helmand, Afghanistan, leading unprecedented success in reducing violence and delivering community engagement and regeneration.

Richard Stanton

Job Titles:
  • Assistant Chief Fire Officer
  • Director for People
Richard is responsible for several people-related functions, including People Support Services, Workforce Planning, recruitment and advancement, Learning and Development, and Diversity, Inclusion, Cohesion and Equality (DICE). He has wide-ranging experience in portfolio/project management, change and transformation, health and safety and incident command.

Simon Barry

Job Titles:
  • Deputy Chief Fire Officer
  • Director for Enabling Services
Simon's professional passion is ensuring our communities receive an excellent service from West Midlands Fire Service, and that we are doing everything we can to reduce the chance of harm to anybody living/working in or visiting the West Midlands. He aims to create an environment and culture in which colleagues can thrive and be the best version of themselves.

Steve Ball

Job Titles:
  • Area Commander