CITY OF DES MOINES, IOWA
The City of Des Moines, Iowa, covers 80 square miles with a population of about 198,000 citizens. The Des Moines Core-Based statistical area which includes adjoining counties and cities is comprised of a population of about 504,000. Approximately 65,000 citizens travel to the downtown business area daily. Des Moines is a major center for the insurance industry and also has a sizeable financial services and publishing business base. It is the home of the annual State Fair each August and is the host to numerous conventions and trade shows.
The City of Des Moines, Iowa, Fire Chief plans, organizes and directs the operations and activities of the Fire Department; performs directly related work as required. The principal function of the Fire Chief is to provide administrative oversight to all operations and activities of the Fire Department. The work is performed under the direct supervision of the City Manager but extensive leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. Supervision is exercised over the work of all employees within the Fire Department, in coordination with a management team consisting of the positions of Assistant Chief. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective working relationships with other City employees, the City Council, business and community groups, other emergency personnel, state and federal officials, representatives of the media and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in a general office environment.
The City of Des Moines is seeking an imaginative leader able to stimulate the City Manager, City Council and Staff to develop a variety of ways of addressing issues and arriving at solutions. A commitment to the need for self and employee training and development for managers, supervisors and employees is desired. The new Fire Chief will project a strong, professional presence in appearance, actions and personal demeanor in representing the city and department and be a person who can inspire confidence and credibility with regard to department affairs.
The successful candidate for the position of Fire Chief for the City of Des Moines will have graduated from an accredited college or university with a Master’s degree in Public Administration; and will also possess extensive experience in Fire Department Emergency Operations and Administration with a considerable management role; or will possess any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work. Graduation from the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program is desirable. The successful candidate must also pass a post-employment offer physical examination and drug screen and must possess a valid Iowa driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility. Residency within the City limits of Des Moines will also be required.
Des Moines is the capital of the State of Iowa. It has a Council-Manager form of government with six councilmembers, four from wards and two elected at –large.
The Fire Department was begun in 1865 and termed the “Hook & Ladder”. By 1871, the Fire Chief was earning $400.00 per year. Today the Fire Department is a customer focused department with state of the art fire protection and emergency medical and other related services.
The salary for the new Fire Chief for the Des Moines Fire Department will be market competitive depending on experience and qualifications. Reasonable moving expenses will be covered.
Confidential resumes should be sent to James L. Mercer, President, The Mercer Group, Inc., at 551 W Cordova Road #726, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505. Voice: 505-466-9500; Fax: 505-466-1274. E-mail: mercer@mindspring.com; Website: mercergroupinc.com.
The City of Des Moines is an equal opportunity employer. The City does not discriminate based on race, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
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