An Opportunity to Join Our Dynamic Team … in a Dynamic City

The Corporation of the City of St. Thomas is excited to begin the search for its next Fire Chief as the current Fire Chief prepares for retirement in May 2027.

FIRE CHIEF

Fire Services

Posting #1281-10-26

POSITION SYNOPSIS AND PURPOSE:

Under the general direction of the City Manager, the Fire Chief is responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and operational oversight of the Fire Department, including the development and implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and service delivery standards. The position oversees and coordinates all fire suppression, fire prevention, communications, training, public education, and emergency management functions for the City of St. Thomas, while also providing technical expertise and support to neighbouring municipalities through established Mutual Aid Agreements.

As the statutory head of the Fire Department, the Fire Chief is accountable for ensuring compliance with the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, applicable legislation, departmental by-laws, and established municipal policies. The role is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, operation, and effectiveness of the department, exercising significant independent judgment and leadership in the management of fire protection services.

While maintaining overall accountability for all departmental functions, the Fire Chief provides strategic direction to ensure an integrated and comprehensive approach to fire protection service delivery, with specific oversight of administration, fire prevention, and communications. The position promotes continuous improvement, innovation,



and best practices across all areas of the department to enhance organizational effectiveness, public safety, and community resilience.

As a member of the Corporate Senior Leadership Team, the Fire Chief contributes to corporate initiatives beyond the direct scope of the department, supports cross-functional collaboration, and champions the City's mission, vision, values, and strategic priorities.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Administration and Leadership (25%)

- Provides strategic leadership and oversight of Fire Department operations, service planning, community risk assessment, and emergency management.
- Develops, implements, and monitors fire service plans, master plans, mutual aid agreements, and other fire protection initiatives.
- Maintains effective relationships with Council, City departments, external agencies, community stakeholders, and government partners.
- Provides advice, recommendations, reports, and presentations to Council, committees, and other stakeholders on fire service matters, legislation, and emerging issues.
- Leads emergency response activities for significant incidents, including strategic decision-making, hazard mitigation, and incident support.
- Represents the City in legal proceedings, inquests, and other official forums as required.
- Participates as a member of the Corporate Senior Leadership Team,



supporting corporate initiatives and organizational objectives.
- Promotes continuous improvement, operational efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and opportunities to enhance service delivery.

Operations and Service Planning (25%)

- Develops and implements departmental strategies, policies, procedures, standards, and service plans to meet community needs and legislative requirements.
- Provides overall leadership and administration of Fire Department operations, including fire prevention, suppression, emergency management, communications, training, apparatus and equipment, and related programs.
- Ensures compliance with applicable legislation, regulations, by-laws, codes, standards, and statutory responsibilities of the Fire Chief.
- Leads departmental planning, risk assessment, performance measurement, continuous improvement initiatives, and service delivery reviews.
- Develops and administers annual and multi-year business plans and budgets aligned with Council and corporate priorities.
- Advises Council, senior administration, external agencies, and community stakeholders on fire service matters, emergency planning, policies, programs, and emerging issues.
- Establishes and maintains collaborative partnerships to enhance fire protection services, community safety, and regional coordination.
- Oversees firefighter training, career development, and organizational planning to maintain operational readiness and effectiveness.
- Maintains required records, reporting systems, and accountability measures to support regulatory compliance, operational planning, and informed decision-making.
- Fosters collaboration among

📌 Fire Chief (St. Thomas)
🏢 City of St. Thomas
📍 St. Thomas