As Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service celebrates 30 years, it is also a time to reflect on the people whose dedication and commitment have helped shape the organisation we know today. One of those people is Helen Rees, who this year marks 25 years of service in Procurement.
What began in 2001 as a role supporting the Service as a Water Assistant has grown into a career defined by professional excellence, personal development, and pride in being part of something bigger.
Over the years, Helen has played a key role in building and strengthening what was once a non-existent procurement function into a high-performing, award-winning team. Her achievements include:
- Individual of the Year, More Than Just Fires Awards 2022
- High Commendation – Individual of the Year, GO Wales Procurement Awards 2022/23
- High Commendation – Best Procurement Delivery, GO Wales Procurement Awards 2023/24 and 2024/25
- CIPS Fellowship, awarded in 2024
But for Helen, it’s not just the accolades that stand out - it’s the moments, people and memories that bring her journey to life.
Helen has many fond memories over the year, but one of her earliest recollections was when she was called to the Chief Fire Officer’s office just days after starting her role in 2001, convinced something was wrong, only to discover that CFO Ronnie King made a point of personally welcoming every new starter - a gesture that has stayed with her to this day. From working in a portacabin at Uncheldir, to moving into House No. 3 at Lime Grove, and later becoming one of the first members of staff to move into the brand-new Service Headquarters, Helen has witnessed - and supported, many of the Service’s major transitions.
Another memorable moment came during the official opening of the new HQ, when Helen met the Duke of Gloucester.
Alongside these moments were significant milestones: helping establish the Service’s first formal procurement function, supporting the relocation of Stores from Johnstown to Earlswood, and briefly stepping into a role within Finance.
Professional development has been a constant feature of Helen’s career, with the Service supporting her journey from achieving MCIPS in 2008 to Fellowship status in 2024 - an achievement she never imagined when she first joined.
Reflecting on her time at MAWWFRS, Helen said:
“There have been many moments that have made me feel really proud working for MAWWFRS - both from my own individual achievements, but even more so the achievements of my amazing procurement team. We’re small but perfectly formed!”
Assistant Chief Officer, Mydrian Harries said:
“Helen’s unwavering devotion to her role has seen her grow into a respected and influential leader within the public procurement profession. Her achievements stand as a testament to a lifetime of dedication, something we are all proud of. Yet beyond her accomplishments, there is also the Helen we know personally, a trusted friend and someone who will always hold a special place within our Service’s family.”
Above all, what Helen values most is the people. The Service’s strong sense of family, camaraderie and shared purpose has left a lasting impression, and former colleagues are remembered with the same fondness as those still working alongside her today.
As MAWWFRS marks 30 years of service to our communities, Helen’s story is a reminder that it is the people - their dedication, humour, growth and pride - who truly define our journey.
