Be the Chief Officer Firefighters Want You to Be: Leadership in Action

The third in a series of three articles based on lessons learned as a Battalion Chief.

By Rob Fleeup, Battalion Chief of Operations

A Call to Action for Chief Officers

In the fire service, the saying “be the chief officer the firefighters want you to be” is more than just advice—it’s a call to embody the values, integrity, and empathy that firefighters seek in their leaders. This phrase encapsulates the essence of effective leadership, urging chief officers to stay connected to their roots, maintain a high standard of accountability, and lead with humility. This article explores how this saying aligns with key leadership principles, illustrating how chief officers can fulfill the expectations of their firefighters while guiding their teams toward excellence.

Empathy and Understanding: Staying Connected to the Front Lines

Empathy is at the heart of effective leadership. The article series emphasizes the importance of remembering where you come from and staying connected to the daily activities of the fire service. This connection is exactly what firefighters desire in a chief officer—someone who understands their struggles, challenges, and the realities of their work.

However, it’s important to recognize that being the chief officer firefighters want you to be doesn’t mean, that either you or the firefighters receive a “free pass”. It’s about having an understanding of the job’s demands and the accountability that comes with leadership. Firefighters appreciate a leader who empathizes with their day-to-day realities but also holds themselves—and the shift and station—to high standards. By staying grounded and embodying this balance of empathy and accountability, chief officers can build trust and create a culture of mutual respect, ensuring their leadership is both relatable and effective.

Accountability and Responsibility: Leading by Example

Firefighters respect leaders who hold themselves accountable and set clear expectations. The saying encourages chief officers to lead by example, demonstrating responsibility in both their actions and decisions. This series has highlighted the importance of accountability, both personally and organizationally.

Being accountable means more than just taking ownership of your actions—it involves being transparent, setting clear standards, and consistently upholding them. Firefighters want a chief officer who not only sets high standards but also lives by them, inspiring others to do the same. While empathy is critical, it must be coupled with accountability; firefighters need to see their leaders making tough decisions and holding the line when necessary. By embodying this balance, a chief officer fosters a culture of responsibility that permeates the entire department.

Balancing Leadership with Day-to-Day Realities: Navigating Complexities

Leadership in the fire service requires a delicate balance between managing the daily activities of the fire ground and fulfilling broader responsibilities. This balance is critical in being the chief officer that firefighters want—a leader who can navigate the complexities of the job while remaining approachable and in touch with the realities of the field.

Firefighters want a leader who understands the demands of the job yet can also think strategically and make informed decisions that benefit the team in the long run. This balance ensures that leadership decisions are practical, grounded, and always in the best interest of the team. By staying connected to the front lines while also focusing on the bigger picture, chief officers can lead with insight and effectiveness.

Humility and Approachability: Fostering Trust and Respect

Humility is a key attribute of effective leadership. The idea of being the chief officer that firefighters want you to be includes leading with humility and being approachable. The article series touches on the need for humility—admitting when you’re wrong, learning from mistakes, and continuously striving to improve.

Firefighters want a leader who is not only knowledgeable and decisive but also willing to listen, adapt, and grow. Humility fosters trust and respect, which are essential for effective leadership. By being approachable and open to feedback, chief officers can create a positive work environment where every team member feels valued and heard.

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Earning Respect through Actions: Leading by Doing

Respect in the fire service is earned through actions, not just titles. Firefighters look for a chief officer who earns respect through their actions, setting an example for others to follow. This series has emphasized the importance of leading by example—showing respect for every member of the team, making decisions that reflect the best interests of both the team and the community.

Being the chief officer they want you to be means consistently demonstrating these values, earning their trust, and leading in a way that inspires others. By aligning actions with words, chief officers can cultivate a culture of respect, loyalty, and commitment within their teams.

The Path to Effective Leadership

The saying “be the chief officer the firefighters want you to be” encapsulates the essence of effective leadership in the fire service. It aligns perfectly with the principles outlined in this series—empathy, accountability, humility, and staying connected to the realities of the job.

By embodying these qualities, chief officers can not only meet the expectations of their firefighters but also lead in a way that fosters loyalty, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence in the fire service. It is through these principles that true leadership is achieved—leadership that is respected, valued, and effective in guiding teams through the challenges of modern firefighting.

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About the Author

Rob Fleeup has dedicated over 35 years to the fire service, currently serving as a Battalion Chief of Operations in Lawrence, Kansas. He holds a bachelor's degree in Fire Administration and a Master's degree in Public Administration, which have provided him with a solid foundation in both the operational and administrative aspects of fire service. He is also a credentialed Chief Fire Officer.

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