Politics and the Fire Chief – Jared Renshaw

Peter Matthews talks with Western Berks, PA, Fire Commissioner Jared Renshaw about this work to educate fire chiefs about their role in politics and how they can successfully navigate city hall.  Renshaw, who has served in departments on the East and West coasts, has been writing and teaching on the topic of fire service politics, helping leaders navigate the confusing and challenging paths where the two merge, and impact each other.  With many headlines of fire chiefs not being successful in their role, Renshaw warns how relationships and a thorough understanding of the political process can make or break a fire chief. He offers advice to listeners on who to connect with, how to establish and maintain that relationship and how to leverage it for growth in your department.  The two also discuss data, how to produce reports that matter to your supervisors, and a look at management maydays that chiefs can encounter.   Resources:  Leadership Lessons: Management Mayday  Live to Fight Another Day  Answering the Call to City Hall