Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief

The City of Clarence-Rockland has an excellent opportunity for a fire service leader looking to expand their responsibilities into other municipal areas. The successful incumbent will be a key member of the municipalities leadership team while managing the day-to-day activities of multiple departments.

Under the direction of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief is responsible for the effective administration, planning, operations and management of the following departments: Bylaw; Building and Construction; Emergency Management and Health and Safety; and Fire. Through the provision of leadership, vision, strategic thinking, risk assessment/management and fiscal responsibility, the Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief shall ensure that the actions of the department and staff follow the corporate policies, strategic plan and all applicable municipal, federal and provincial requirements.

This key leadership position oversees and manages multiple departments. In addition, the Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief will be responsible for leading and managing the Fire Services of the City of Clarence-Rockland, as well as providing oversight and coordination of fire services as the Fire Chief for two neighbouring municipalities. The Director of Protective Services/Fire Chief plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and businesses, enhancing community resilience, and supporting emergency preparedness.

Minimum Requirements

1. Post-secondary degree in Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or a related field preferred. Additional certifications in leadership, health and safety, or emergency management are highly desirable.
2. Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fire services, emergency management, or public safety leadership, including at least 5 years in a senior management role. Experience in leadership and managing in a municipal setting is an asset.
3. Must be able to demonstrate strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
4. Must have in-depth knowledge of fire service operations, emergency management, and public safety regulations.
5. Must have knowledge of construction practices, the Fire Services Act, the Building Code, municipal bylaws and other relevant legislation.
6. Must have experience writing reports, including the ability to write reports to a municipal council in relation to enforcement or building matters.
7. Must have proven experience managing large, diverse teams and budgets as well as managing multiple files simultaneously on a variety of topics.
8. Must be able to manage crises effectively.
9. Must have excellent organizational skills and be able to set priorities to meet departmental deadlines, budgets, and departmental needs.
10. Must be flexible and can quickly adapt according to changing needs.
11. Must be able to demonstrate creativity, leadership, and initiative.
12. Must have strong project-reporting skills, with a focus on interdepartmental communications.
13. Must have a high degree of integrity due to exposure to highly confidential and/or politically sensitive information.

Asset

1. Executive Chief Fire Officer designation, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications or equivalent would be an asset, as well as training in emergency management, incident command, and leadership in the public sector.