DESCRIPTION: Baltimore City Government is seeking a highly qualified, self-motivated professional to lead the City’s Fire Department.  The Fire Chief is appointed by and is directly accountable to the Mayor of Baltimore City. The Fire Chief is expected to develop strategic plans in short-term and long-term goals for the Department and manage the daily operations.  To direct such critical functions for Baltimore City, this position is expected to remain abreast of current best practices, professional standards, developments and trends in the field.  The Fire Chief serves as a liaison with the community to address concerns and conduct outreach and education. 

The Chief directs the provision of fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous-materials handling, fire-prevention activities, public education, fire investigation services, and Homeland Security resources with a budget of more than $147 million dollars.  The Chief is ultimately responsible for the management of over 35 neighborhood fire stations, and over 100 fire and EMS units. This includes 55 first-line suppression units, and 22 first-line medic units as well as specialty units such as hazmat trucks, rescue squads and a marine response unit. These units respond to incidents over 250,000 times per year. The incumbent is also responsible for the training and management of approximately 1,700 uniformed personnel and 70 civilian staff throughout the department.  The department is divided into two management sectors – operations and administration.

Qualifications for the successful applicant include: A Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science, Business Administration, Public Administration or a closely related field. Minimum of 7 years of progressive supervisory, command and current rank of Battalion Chief or above in similar sized or larger organization.  Such experience shall include areas of fire suppression, rescue, fire prevention, fire investigations, emergency medical services (EMS), hazardous materials, management information systems, and emergency response planning and exercise. Experience in the management and implementation of emergency response training and safety programs. Experience in interagency coordination with public safety agencies. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Strong labor/management skills, including contract negotiations/management.

Must have a demonstrated ability to develop and administer a budget and take a proactive leadership role in meeting budget goals. The applicant must have demonstrated experience, skills and characteristics, which include: High level of motivation and enthusiasm in leading a progressive fire district; Ability to provide effective leadership that builds trust and confidence; High level of professionalism and work ethic and a proven decision-maker and visionary; Ability to build and maintain effective working and interpersonal relationships with the community, other public safety and political entities, subordinates, and superiors; Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing to a diverse audience; Ability to develop and implement short- and long-range planning and goals; Possesses the personal and professional dynamics necessary for attracting, developing, motivating, and retaining high quality personnel; Understands and utilizes performance measurement and can convey information in CitiStat; accountability sessions.