Full job descriptionSouthwark 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.