Following a rigorous recruitment process, Mark Arkwell has been appointed as Royal Berkshire’s next Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Officer.
Having worked in the fire and rescue service for more than 26 years with Surrey and Royal Berkshire, Mark has extensive experience to bring to the role.
Speaking of his appointment, Mark said: “I am immensely proud to accept the role of Royal Berkshire’s next Chief Fire Officer.”
“It will be a great honour to lead a Service that is made up of dedicated public servants delivering their very best for our community. I am incredibly excited to lead the Service on the next step of its journey.
“I would like to record my thanks to the Service’s current Chief Fire Officer, Wayne Bowcock, who I have been privileged to work alongside for several years. I know that his time leading the Service will leave a lasting legacy.”
Councillor Jeff Brooks, Chair of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, said: “I am pleased to offer the position of Chief Fire Officer to someone of exceptional ability and knowledge.
“The selection process was competitive, and we were fortunate to have such high calibre candidates.
“This role carries a great deal of responsibility to residents, businesses and the staff of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and it was therefore imperative that we found someone with the right skills and experience to take the organisation forward.
“Congratulations to Mark and I look forward to working with him to continue to deliver the very best service to the people of Royal Berkshire”.
The appointment was ratified at the Fire Authority meeting on 10 February 2026. A recording of the meeting is available on our YouTube channel. Mark will assume his new role following the retirement of Wayne Bowcock in March 2026.