Emily Cheyne-Guess

Emily Cheyne-Guess is Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Engagement at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. She advises the Chief Fire Officer and Commissioner on political engagement, governance, stakeholder influence, and organisational reputation.  Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is one of the largest fire services in England and serves one of the most geographically and demographically diverse counties in the country. Emily joined the organisation during a period of significant reform and led the communications and engagement programme that supported the Service's transformation and national recognition, including being named Fire Service of the Year.  She also led the development of the Community Risk Management Plan 2025–2030, the strategic blueprint guiding how the Service manages risk and protects communities across Essex.  A CIPR Chartered Practitioner with more than 20 years' experience in strategic communications and public affairs, Emily has worked across the public and private sectors in the UK and internationally, including several years leading a corporate communications department in Abu Dhabi for a government-owned organisation A former CIPR Chartership assessor, Emily also contributed to the development of the UK Fire Standards Board's Consultation and Engagement Standard, and is a strong advocate for ethical, politically literate public affairs and the continued professionalisation of the sector.