The Firefighters Podcast
The Firefighters Podcast is a global podcast seeking to develop, inspire, connect, motivate, represent & celebrate the world of our emergency services operators through a series of wide-ranging conversations celebrating those within our emergency services family and encouraging the support of this incredible group of people.
Operational UK firefighter Pete Wakefield speaks with individuals from all walks of life who share a connection with, can add value to, or can develop those who choose this life path.
Our driving purpose is to create a legacy resource for the current and future generations of firefighters & first responders
The Firefighters Podcast
#354 Most Influential Women in Fire 2024 with Colette Black
My guest today is Colette Black, Director of People Services and Assistant Chief Executive at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. A Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), Colette holds postgraduate qualifications in executive coaching and strengths-based coaching and is a nationally accredited mediator. With a strong interest in occupational psychology, she has recently conducted research on psychological safety and positive action within UK Fire and Rescue Services. Nationally, she plays an active role with the NFCC, leading on the culture dashboard and people policies, and was recognized as one of the 'Most Influential Women in Fire' in December 2024.
Our conversation explores key themes such as organizational strategy, positive action, and challenges within fire and rescue services. Colette shares insights from her research on misogyny, bullying, and harassment, emphasizing the need for a psychologically safe work environment. We discuss the importance of balancing positivity and accountability in leadership, as well as the role of coaching and situational leadership in developing new leaders. Colette highlights the significance of role models, belonging, and behaviours in fostering diversity and inclusion, alongside the challenges of measuring success and the potential pitfalls of quotas. The discussion also touches on supporting women in the fire service, the role of fitness in recruitment, professional standards training, and the importance of collaboration in creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
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