Overview Lead the Voice of Florida’s Fire Service. The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as its next Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer. This is a unique opportunity to lead one of the nation’s most respected statewide fire service organizations and help shape the future of the fire service in Florida. The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of both the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Foundation, working closely with the Board of Directors to implement the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, and initiatives that support the fire service across the State of Florida. The Executive Director works collaboratively with fire service leaders, policymakers, industry partners, and public safety stakeholders to advance advocacy, professional development, and collaboration within Florida’s fire service community.

About the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association represents fire service leaders from across the state and provides a platform for professional development, legislative advocacy, collaboration, and leadership within the fire service. Through conferences, educational programming, legislative engagement, and member services, FFCA supports fire chiefs and fire service leaders who serve communities throughout Florida. The Association also administers the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Foundation, a charitable 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the advancement of the fire service in Florida through scholarships, educational grants, and professional development opportunities.

Organizational Context The Association is entering an important period of organizational transition and opportunity. In recent years, FFCA has undertaken significant efforts to strengthen internal governance, financial management, and organizational transparency. These efforts have positioned the Association for renewed stability and long-term growth. The next Executive Director will have the opportunity to help strengthen the organization’s operational foundation while working with the Board of Directors to advance strategic priorities that support Florida’s fire service community. Candidates who are energized by organizational leadership, mission-driven advocacy, and collaborative engagement with statewide stakeholders are encouraged to apply.

Position Overview Under the general direction of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director serves as the Association’s Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for implementing the mission, strategic priorities, and initiatives established by the Board. The Executive Director manages the daily operations of the Association and Foundation, oversees staff and financial resources, supports membership programs, and represents the organization in professional, governmental, and public forums. This position is remote within Florida and requires periodic travel for board meetings, legislative engagement, conferences, and association events.

Essential Functions Organizational Leadership Provide executive leadership for the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Foundation. Implement the strategic direction and initiatives established by the Board of Directors. Ensure organizational structure effectively supports the Association’s mission and programs. Maintain regular communication with the President, Board Officers, and Directors regarding organizational matters.

Operational Management Oversee the overall operations of the Association, including administration, finance, staff management, conferences, educational programs, and membership services. Ensure organizational policies, procedures, and governance practices are implemented effectively.

Strategic Plan Implementation Maintain and implement the Association’s strategic plan. Provide routine updates to the Board of Directors.

Financial Oversight Develop and manage the annual operating budget. Maintain appropriate financial controls and safeguard the Association’s assets. Ensure annual audits and financial reporting requirements are met.

Legislative and Government Relations Support and advance FFCA’s legislative and policy initiatives. Maintain relationships with legislators, state officials, public safety organizations, and partner agencies. Assist the Board in coordinating advocacy initiatives that support Florida’s fire service.

Conferences and Professional Development Oversee FFCA conferences, educational programming, and professional development initiatives. Ensure programs support leadership development and operational excellence in the fire service.

Membership Engagement Support initiatives to strengthen membership engagement and growth. Oversee membership programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts.

Board Relations Coordinate with the Association President and Foundation Chair in developing meeting agendas and reports. Provide staff support for Board meetings and committee activities. Ensure Board directives are implemented effectively.

External Representation Serve as a spokesperson for the Association as directed. Maintain relationships with industry partners, sponsors, and stakeholder organizations.

Confidentiality The Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association recognizes that many applicants for this position may currently serve in senior leadership roles. All applications will be treated as confidential and will be reviewed only by the Executive Director Search Committee.

Application Process Interested candidates should submit the following materials: Cover Letter Resume Professional References In addition, candidates are asked to provide brief written responses to the following questions: Provide an example of how you navigated a complex legislative or public policy issue and describe the key relationships that contributed to success. Describe your experience planning or managing a successful professional conference or large-scale event. How did you measure success? Provide an example of how you addressed a challenging financial situation within an organization. Selected candidates may be asked to submit additional materials during later stages of the selection process. Applications will be accepted for an initial 30-day period following the posting of this position. Applications should be submitted to: administrator at ffca.org Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Senior leadership experience in association management, nonprofit leadership, public safety, or government relations. Experience managing budgets, staff, and organizational operations. Strong communication and relationship-building skills. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in related field. Familiarity with legislative processes and public policy advocacy. Experience working with governing boards and committees. Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will demonstrate: Executive leadership and organizational management Experience working collaboratively with governing boards Financial and operational management expertise Strong legislative and stakeholder relationship skills Strategic thinking and problem-solving ability Commitment to advancing the fire service profession

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