Listing Summary

Bryan County is seeking a Director of Fire and Emergency Services to join their leadership team.  Bryan County is one of the fastest growing counties in the United States due to its proximity to Atlantic Coast, ports, and to Savannah, Georgia. Bryan County is unique in that it is completely bisected by Fort Stewart and because of this, has County facilities in two locations. Bryan County’s transportation infrastructure includes Interstates 95 and 16 that create easy access to the cities of Richmond Hill in the southern portion and Pembroke, the county seat, in the north. The most recent population is estimated to be 50,000 citizens, but the Pembroke area will soon see rapid industrial expansion with the construction of the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America estimated to bring 8,500 jobs.  Five county district commissioners and a countywide Chairman are elected as Bryan County’s governing authority to serve four-year terms. Bryan County’s day-to-day operations are overseen by a County Administrator who is appointed by the Commission. This position reports to the County Administrator.  The department operates as a combination department, staffed by both full-time Firefighters, EMT’s and Paramedics, along with a team of highly trained and professional volunteers. They respond from ten stations to a variety of emergencies, including fire, medical calls, motor vehicle accidents, rescues and hazardous materials incidents.  The firefighters are cross trained as medical first responders, allowing them to provide critical care before an ambulance arrives.  The integrated approach ensures that the highest level of service is delivered to the citizens and visitors of Bryan County. BCFES operates eight ambulances on each shift, strategically positioned on both the north and south ends of the county, each manned by certified Paramedics and EMT’s equipped with state-of-the-art emergency medical equipment.

 

Find details about the position expectations by reviewing the recruitment brochure at www.mercergroupassociates.com

 

The Bryan County Fire and EMS Director is responsible for organizing, directing, and managing all operations of the department including to plan, coordinate, supervise, and evaluate Fire and Emergency Services operations; establish policies and procedures for Fire and Emergency Services Department to implement directives from the County Administrator and the Board of Commissioners; plan and implement Fire and Emergency Services programs for the County in order to better carry out the policies and goals of the County; review departmental performance and effectiveness; formulate programs or policies to alleviate deficiencies; supervise and coordinate the preparation and presentation of an annual budget for Fire and Emergency Services, directs the implementation of the department budgets, and plans for and reviews specifications for new or replaced equipment; and serve as a liaison between County Fire and Emergency Services Department, Municipal Fire Departments, E911, and law enforcement. Bryan County is seeking a seasoned leader to serve as its next Director of Fire and Emergency Services. The ideal candidate will bring a robust background in fire service leadership and public safety, with a demonstrated ability to guide a diverse team in delivering exceptional emergency response and fire prevention programs. In this critical role, the Director will develop and implement strategic plans for fire suppression, emergency medical services, and disaster response. The successful candidate will manage departmental budgets, oversee training programs for firefighters and emergency personnel, and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. Building and maintaining strong relationships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as clear communication with the public and County officials, will be key to success. The Director will be responsible for leading response efforts during emergencies, providing clear and decisive leadership in high-pressure situations. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions are essential. Additionally, the Director will act as the primary spokesperson for the department, keeping the community informed and engaged. This position demands a high level of commitment, requiring availability during all hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure the safety and well-being of Bryan County residents.

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university in fire sciences, public administration, business or public safety related field along with extensive experience in emergency services, including supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience, which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the job.
• A minimum of five years of supervisory experience in firefighting and EMS is required.
• Pro Board, IFSAC or State Fire certification with considerable command experience in firefighting and fire prevention practices. Should possess an EMT Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced certification. National Registry of State Paramedic Certification preferred.
• Evidence of continued professional development such as the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program designation as Chief Fire Officer/Executive Fire Officer, the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) designation as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and completion of upper-level NIMS ICS training are positive indicators of dedication to the profession and will be noted during the candidate vetting process.
• Applicant must possess a valid Driver’s License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record.

Compensation & Benefits:  The expected starting salary range for this position is $125,000 - $140,000 (depending on qualifications of the selected candidate), with a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, life insurance and retirement benefits.   Relocation expenses negotiable. 

How to Apply:  Interested candidates must submit by email a cover letter, resume, a list of at least five job related references with name, email and phone numbers, as well as salary history no later than October 8, 2024:  Lisa Ward, Senior Associate, Mercer Group Associates, at lisaward912@gmail.com. Any questions please call 706-983-9326.

 

Alan Reddish, Senior Associate, 107 Indigo Lane, Athens, GA 30606, Cell:  706-614-4961