Fire Chief

Job Title:  Fire Chief
Location:  Kenora, Ontario
Type:  Full Time | Permanent
Salary:  $148,233 - $181, 082 per year
Closing Date: October 11, 2024

Please note that we encourage early applications as we may proceed with interviews and make offers to exceptional candidates before the closing date.

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Fire Chief to lead our municipal fire department and help shape the future of our emergency services. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Fire Chief will be responsible for the leadership and direction of the Fire and Emergency Services Department (1 Deputy Chief, 12 career and approximately 35 Paid-per-call firefighters) including Public Education and Prevention, Fires Safety Standards and Enforcement, and Emergency Response for the residents of Kenora, Ontario and neighboring communities. The delivery of comprehensive fire protection and rescue services requires the development and administration of operating and capital budgets, purchasing, and management of three fire stations and a fleet of emergency vehicles.

This position requires a commitment to community, political acuity, and the exercise of good judgment within the established policies, procedures, industry standards, and best practices. The Fire Chief holds a critical leadership role, requiring visionary leadership and the ability to pivot between collaborative and command and control approaches.

Located in the scenic Kenora District, just two hours east of Winnipeg, Manitoba, our municipality offers a blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. With pristine lakes, forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities at your doorstep, this is the perfect opportunity for those who love the outdoors while contributing to the safety and well-being of a close-knit community.

The Fire Chief will:

• Collaborate with the CAO and Executive Team in setting organizational vision, goals, and strategic priorities.
• Provide leadership to the Department in the ongoing identification of best practices, supports a culture of belonging and continuous improvement, including the adoption of the latest technology in fire prevention/protection and emergency response.
• Implement, and maintain the Master Fire Plan which connects Fire and Emergency Services with the Council approved Strategic Plan.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations and activities of the Fire Department; develop, implement, and maintain the Department’s policies, and Standard Operating Guidelines/Procedures and ensure they are followed.
• Facilitate progressive and constructive communication with the Kenora Professional Firefighters Association and its members; participate in the Labour Management Committee, Collective Bargaining negotiations, and in the grievance process (when necessary).
• Analyze and coordinate overall staffing, participate in recruitment, evaluate development and ensure the appropriate delegation of responsibility and authority.
• Mentor and develop personnel, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
• Leads organization change to maximize results and to build a sustainable entity through effective stewardship and governance among the team while creating a culture of accountability.
• Oversee the department’s procurement, budgeting, maintenance, and personnel training programs.
• Prepare annual operating and capital budgets including forecasting; plan for the orderly addition/replacement of facilities, fleet and equipment relating to use, age or community growth.
• Act as the Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) for the City.
• Participate as managerial co-chair for the Department’s Joint Health and Safety.

Qualifications:

• 10 years demonstrated experience with the principles, practices and techniques of Fire Service operations.
• Post-secondary education in emergency management, fire protection, fire sciences, public or business administration, leadership or related field preferred.
• NFPA Standard 1001 – Firefighter I and II
• NFPA Standard 1021 – Fire Officer III
• NFPA Standard 1031 – Fire Inspector I and II
• NFPA Standard 1041 – Fire Instructor I and II
• Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC) certification, or the ability to obtain.
• Eligibility for the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation through the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.
• Previous experience leading in a composite fire.
• Experience in managing a complex unionized operational environment.
• Experience developing, managing, and analyzing capital and operational budgets.
• Demonstrated ability in researching, analyzing, strategizing, and communication progressive ideas and concepts including the preparation of comprehensive written reports.
• Knowledge of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, O. Reg. 343/22 Firefighter Certification, Occupational Health and Safety Act, NFPA standards/guidelines, and the Ontario Fire Code
• Valid Ontario DZ Driver’s license in good standing, or equivalent.
• Valid Standard First Aid/CPR with AED certification.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule as hours of work may vary; on-call for emergency situations; attending department training/meetings, and Council meetings as required.

Qualities that we are seeking:

• Fair and equitable leader
• Resilient
• Self-starter
• Highly accountable
• High ethical standards and exhibits sound judgement
• Collaborative, critical thinker with problem solving skills

First Year Key Focus Areas – Measure of Success:

• Implement recommendations within the Master Fire Plan.
• Coordinate and ensure new Firefighter Certification requirements are met in accordance with Provincial Regulations as per the Council approved Levels of Service.
• Coordinate implementation of the Emergency Management Program and Plan.
• Assist with implementing the City’s first Community Wildland Fire Protection Plan.
• Gain an understanding of the organizational culture and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Develop relationships with community stakeholders and identify opportunities for partnerships.

Why apply:

• Leadership Role: Be the key decision-maker in our fire services, shaping the future of emergency services in our municipality while building close relationships with our firefighters.
• Lifestyle: Enjoy the beauty of Kenora with opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, boating, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities in your downtime.
• Short commute-times: Our community offers the advantage of quick, hassle-free commutes where you’ll spend less time on the road and more time enjoying the natural beauty and recreational activities the area has to offer.
• Excellent Benefits Package: Including but not limited to: OMERS defined benefit pension plan (rated as one of 2023’s Top 10 pension funds), employer paid Health and Dental benefits, moving allowance, generous paid time off, and more!
• Community Impact: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of the residents by ensuring their safety and well-being.

Apply now to join the City of Kenora where every workday is a win!

Successful candidates will be required to submit a Vulnerable Sector check, driver’s abstract, and professional references.