Service Improvement Business Manager (Maternity Cover)

The Business Manager (Service Improvement) plays a key role in supporting organisational performance, inspection readiness, and corporate improvement activity across Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS). The postholder will provide high-quality performance management, analysis, reporting, and programme support to maximise organisational outcomes and support continuous improvement.

Duties will include:

• Leading the collation, validation and analysis of performance data and management information for inclusion in CFRS performance management and reporting cycles.

• Producing high-quality written reports and briefing materials for Senior Leadership Team and Fire Authority meetings.

• Supporting Service Delivery departments with performance monitoring, including analysis of community action plans and station-based audits.

• Coordinating and quality-assuring CFRS responses to data requests from HMICFRS and the Home Office.

• Supporting the development, monitoring and reporting of action plans arising from inspection outcomes and service improvement activity.

• Undertaking audit and assessment of organisational performance against HMICFRS judgment criteria, acting as a subject matter expert.

• Conducting benchmarking and analysis of national HMICFRS publications and inspection reports to identify learning and improvement opportunities.

• Acting as a key point of contact during HMICFRS inspections, coordinating information and supporting accurate inspection outcomes.

• Providing central coordination for the implementation and monitoring of Fire Standards across the Service.

• Supporting corporate programme and project management, including maintaining planning and project management systems.

• Representing CFRS at internal and external meetings, workshops and conferences as required.

• Line managing the Service Improvement Administrator, providing coaching and support to maximise performance.

To apply, please complete the job application form and provide evidence of competency against the requirements of the attached job description.

CFRS offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Local Government Pension Scheme

• Generous annual leave entitlement

• Training and development opportunities

• Free parking and access to an on-site gym

Further information, a full job description and application form can be found below or alternatively contact the HR Recruitment Team at recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Please ensure you read the Application guidance notes before completing your application.

Please return completed application forms via email to recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Please quote job reference 52/25/SIBM on your application form.

Job description

Application guidance notes

Application form

Closing date for applications: 9am, Tuesday 3 February 2026

Workplace Adjustments and Accommodations

It is important that you consider at an early stage of the process if you would like to request arrangements that will assist you in completing the selection process. For example, in relation to disability; a neurodiverse condition such as dyslexia; pregnancy; religion or belief; or injury etc. Any requests for workplace adjustments will be treated with the utmost confidence. For support or further information please email: recruitment@cheshirefire.gov.uk

Applications for part-time and job share working will be considered for this post.

Appointment to this post is subject to a satisfactory Standard Disclosure & Barring Service check.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) is committed to keeping vulnerable adults, children and young people safe from harm in all of the work that CFRS undertakes. CFRS recognises that it has a legal and moral obligation to safeguard these groups of people. Furthermore, it acknowledges that the protection of vulnerable adults, children and young people from harm is the responsibility of everybody within the organisation.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups such as women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, the LGBT+ community, people with disabilities, and those with non-traditional career paths. If you’re passionate about the role we would encourage you to apply - your unique perspective could be exactly what we’re looking for.