Special Projects Fire Safety Advisor

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.