Client: City of Richmond, Virginia
Position: Chief of Fire and Emergency Services
Closing Date: Closed
Additional Information:

This is truly an exciting opportunity to live and work in Richmond, Virginia, one of the most dynamic areas of the State of Virginia, including the State Capital. The City of Richmond is conducting a national search for an innovative and committed fire professional to serve as the next Chief of Fire and Emergency Services (Fire Chief). Ideal candidates must be hands-on, with the ability to wear many hats while demonstrating strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. The strongest candidates will be able to provide advanced and dynamic approaches in emergency and public safety services to contribute to the quality of life for Richmond’s residents and visitors. The Chief of Fire and Emergency Services is appointed by and reports to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). The Chief will coordinate assignments and activities for all personnel as well as collaborate with other City, County, Regional, and State agencies. In addition to providing oversight and leadership for a progressive organization’s day-to-day operational activities, the Chief will serve as a technical advisor to the Mayor, CAO, and City Council on fire, disaster management, and EMS issues.
The members of the City of Richmond Fire Department work to protect approximately 230,000 residents, as well as businesses and visitors, over a 62.57 square mile area through seven fire stations. With an ISO Class 1 rating, the Department provides services in the areas of Fire Prevention, Fire Suppression, Investigation, Inspection, Emergency Service, Emergency Preparedness, Public Education, and community programs. The Richmond Fire Department has a history of providing outstanding services as a paid department since 1858 (5th oldest paid department in the country) and currently has an authorized staffing level of 450 professional personnel which includes Firefighter/EMT & ALS providers, safety & operations staff, fire prevention staff, and administrative staff. The City of Richmond Fire and Emergency Services has a network of 24 companies located at 20 fire stations. In addition, Richmond Fire has a FY 2025 operating budget of over $66 million annually.
Education: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in fire science, public administration, emergency management, or a closely related field. A Master’s or other advanced degree is a significant plus. Executive Fire Officer Certification, the Chief Fire Officer Designation, Executive Development Institute, or similar endeavors are also highly desirable.
Experience: The successful candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of increasingly responsible command and management experience, with at least five years at the command or supervisory level. With a passion for public service and a proven track record of success, top candidates will have an outstanding career in fire service and a progressively responsible senior-level career path. Candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications and career history, presented through their submittal of a comprehensive package of information outlining career highlights and notable achievements.
Residency requirement: The Fire Chief is required to live within the City of Richmond jurisdiction.
An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum requirements of the classification.
Desired Qualifications: The following qualifications are desired but not mandatory:
- Fire Marshal Certification
- Certified Chief EMS Officer
- Certified Chief Officer
- National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer
The compensation for Chief of Fire and Emergency Services is up to a maximum of $285,184 annually (DOQ). The Chief will also receive an excellent benefits package.
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