Toronto City Council Appoints New Fire Chief

In a groundbreaking move, the Toronto City Council has unanimously sanctioned the appointment of Jim Jessop as the new Fire Chief and General Manager of Toronto Fire Services (TFS). His official start date will be January 2, 2025, paving the way for a fresh chapter in the largest fire service in Canada.

A Remarkable Career in Firefighting

With an impressive tapestry of nearly 30 years of experience in firefighting, Jessop is set to oversee every facet of TFS. His primary mission will focus on safeguarding lives, properties, and the environment through comprehensive education, proactive prevention measures, and swift emergency responses.

Current Role and Past Achievements

Currently serving as the Deputy Fire Chief and Director of Operations, Training, and Technical Operations, Jessop's wealth of knowledge positions him as a formidable leader. He has previously assumed the role of Acting Fire Chief and General Manager from August 2020 to April 2022, during which he spearheaded the development of the TFS operating budgets for 2021 and 2022. Under his guidance, the recruitment strategies were reformed, significantly boosting the diversity of applicants from equity-deserving communities.

A Strong Foundation in Leadership

Starting his journey with the City of Toronto as a firefighter in 1996, Jessop later took on substantial roles such as Assistant Deputy Minister – Fire Marshal and Chief of Emergency Management for the Government of Ontario. He also gained valuable leadership experience in Niagara Falls and London before returning to Toronto in 2015. Academically, he is well-equipped with a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology, a Master of Public Administration from the University of Western Ontario, and an MBA from Brock University.

Support from City Officials

Paul Johnson, Toronto’s City Manager, praised Jessop’s appointment, stating, "Chief Jessop is an accomplished, strategic and passionate public sector leader who has long shown his commitment to excellence. I am confident that Jim will use his nearly 30 years of experience daily to keep our communities safe."

Jessop's Vision for the Future

Expressing his gratitude, Jim Jessop remarked, "Thanks to Toronto City Council for entrusting me to lead the Toronto Fire Service into its next chapter. Together, we will continue to protect residents, visitors, and businesses against all hazards through preparedness, prevention, public education, and emergency response."

A New Era for Toronto Fire Services

As Jim Jessop steps into his pivotal role, Toronto can expect a new era of enhanced fire safety and community support. His seasoned expertise and fervent leadership are bound to transform the face of emergency services in the city. Stay tuned for further developments!