Senior Executive

Description:

The City of Surrey is seeking an exceptional and visionary Fire Chief to lead the Surrey Fire Service (SFS) — a vital department serving one of Canada's most dynamic and culturally diverse urban populations. With over 460 personnel across 19 worksites, the SFS delivers a full spectrum of fire suppression, emergency medical response, protection, education, and prevention services.

As a key member of the City’s senior executive team, the Fire Chief will play a strategic role in shaping the City's public safety services, ensuring alignment with broader municipal objectives, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders such as Surrey Police, BC Emergency Health Services, and Fraser Health.

You will spearhead department-wide strategic planning, oversee operational execution, manage emergency preparedness, and maintain the City Emergency Plan. The role also entails building a high-performing, inclusive team culture that reflects the diversity of the Surrey community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and lead the vision, strategy, and operational planning of SFS.

• Collaborate with the City’s executive leadership to integrate fire services with city-wide initiatives.

• Build and support an inclusive, high-performing team culture focused on public safety, innovation, and responsiveness.

• Supervise emergency response readiness, including direction during major fires or incidents.

• Maintain and enhance regional dispatch operations and implement technology upgrades.

• Oversee emergency management planning and coordination.

• Develop comprehensive annual operational and capital budgets.

• Provide reports and strategic presentations to the Mayor and City Council.

• Foster positive labor relations with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) local leadership.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Undergraduate degree in Business Administration, Local Government Administration, or Fire Service Management (Master’s degree is an asset).

• Experience: Substantial leadership in a large, urban fire department or comparable emergency service structure.

• Proven track record as a strategic and innovative leader.

• Deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion in public service.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills.

• Experience managing budgets and strategic planning initiatives.

• Familiarity with emergency planning, dispatch services, and municipal operations.

Why Join:

The City of Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada and has received national recognition for innovation, diversity, sustainability, and public service excellence. As Fire Chief, you’ll directly contribute to the safety, wellbeing, and livability of a growing metropolitan area with over 600,000 residents.