Job Description

Southwark Council are looking for an Interim Special Projects Fire Safety Advisor.

£500 per day.

2 days in the office SE1 2QH.

Role Purpose:

The Special Projects Fire Safety Advisor will provide expert technical leadership on fire safety matters relating to external wall systems and associated building safety risks across a large residential portfolio. The role will support the delivery of investigative works, ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, and inform remediation strategies, while acting as a key advisor across contracts, legal matters, and funding applications.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Fire Safety Leadership

Provide professional fire safety advice across a portfolio of high-risk residential buildings.

Act as subject matter expert on external wall systems (EWS) and fire risk in line with PAS 9980 and current guidance.Review and interpret fire safety reports and surveys, including:

Full FRAEWs

Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs)

Facade and cladding investigations

Spandrel panel and cavity barrier assessments

Programme Support & Oversight

Support the delivery of large-scale investigative programmes across multiple buildings.

Work closely with Contract Managers to ensure surveys and investigations are technically robust and fit for purpose.

Ensure consistency, quality, and compliance in fire risk assessments and reporting.

Compliance & Assurance

Ensure all activities align with current legislation and guidance, including:

Building Safety Act

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order

PAS 9980 methodology

Legal & Risk Support

Work with legal teams to support claims relating to defective external wall systems.

Review technical evidence and provide expert input into liability cases.

Assist in determining extent of non-compliance and associated fire risk.

Funding Applications

Provide technical input into applications for the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS) and other funding streams.

Review and validate technical submissions, ensuring alignment with funding criteria.

Support responses to technical queries raised during application assessments.

Stakeholder Engagement

Advise internal stakeholders, including senior management and project teams, on fire safety risks and mitigation measures.

Support communication with residents and elected members where required.

Liaise with consultants, fire engineers, and regulatory bodies.

Skills & Experience

Strong background in fire safety within housing, construction, or building safety.

In-depth knowledge of external wall systems and fire risk assessment methodologies.

Experience reviewing FRAEWs and complex technical reports.

Familiarity with remediation programmes and funding schemes.

Ability to translate complex technical issues into clear, actionable advice