Richard Hagger

Richard started his career in the fire industry in 1983 when he joined West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service as a firefighter. He served for more than 30 years in the Fire Service achieving the rank of Group Manager, carrying out various roles including the responsibility for Fire Investigation. Richard retired in 2013 and formed his own fire consultancy where he has continued to work in the fire sector providing consultancy services and Fire Investigation both in the UK and abroad.

Richard started his Fire Investigation training with Gardiners Associates in 2002. He continued to progress his Fire Investigation career though to completing a MSc in Fire Investigation in 2008, and continues his learning through CPD. He is a current member of the Institution of Fire Engineers, the Chartered Society of Forensic Science, the UK Association of Fire Investigators, the International Association of Arson Investigators and also holds a level 7 Advanced Professional Award in Expert Witness Evidence. Richard has extensive experience of providing expert evidence in Criminal, Civil and Coroner’s courts, both in the UK and overseas. Richard also lectured at Leeds University for over 10 years on their MSc course in Fire and Explosions until he retired from the Fire & Rescue Service.

In addition to having his own consultancy, Richard is a sub-contractor for Andrew Moore and Associates Ltd based in Hong Kong. He provides fire investigation services for both land-based fires and large marine casualties abroad.

Having served on the Board of Directors of the UK-AFI for the past two years, Richard Is privileged to have been elected as 2nd Vice President for 2023 and have the opportunity to sit as an executive Board member. Richard’s experience and enthusiasm will allow him to support and guide the UK-AFI, which, in turn will support and develop the membership by enhancing both technical knowledge and good practice in all areas of fire investigation.

Richard is married and is currently based near Malton in North Yorkshire. He is a Parish Councillor, and his interests include getaways in his caravan, reading, looking after their new cockapoo dog, puzzles, Huddersfield Giants, Formula 1 and exploring the countryside.