Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City has chosen Craig Buckley as its new Fire Chief. He is a seasoned public safety executive who will be in charge of one of the city’s most important agencies. City Manager Mario Vasquez made the announcement about the appointment, which started on Monday, January 26.
Buckley comes to Kansas City with decades of experience in fire and emergency services. He has built a career around leadership, readiness, and helping organizations grow. Most recently, he was the Interim Fire Chief for the City of Orlando Fire Department, where he was in charge of day-to-day operations at a time of change. He has experience leading complicated emergency responses, managing large teams, and improving internal systems to make sure departments can adapt and work well.
City officials say that Buckley’s background makes him an ideal candidate to lead the Kansas City Fire Department as it looks to the future.
“Chief Buckley is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of what it takes to run a modern fire department,” said City Manager Mario Vasquez.
“Beyond his operational experience, he is committed to developing the next generation of leaders within the Kansas City Fire Department, ensuring the organization remains strong, resilient, and ready for the future.”
Buckley is anticipated to focus on operational excellence and engage in staff development in his new job. City authorities pointed out that the appointment is part of a larger plan to enhance long-term capacity in public safety organizations so that people can continue to get reliable and high-quality emergency services.
Read also: Missouri seeks restitution for consumers harmed by alleged insulin price fixing
The city also took the time to thank Fire Chief Ross Grundyson for his work, as he led the department through a difficult time of change. City authorities said that Grundyson’s calm leadership and strong sense of professionalism helped keep the department stable during his time in charge.
Vasquez commended Grundyson for his service and called him a trusted and respected individual whose efforts had a lasting effect on Kansas City. Grundyson is retiring after being chief, and city leaders wished him well as he ends his career in public service.
Buckley is anticipated to speak with reporters in the next few weeks. This will give him a chance to talk about his goals and plans for the department.
To schedule an interview or for questions, media may contact Sherae Honeycutt, Press Secretary of Kansas City, at [email protected].
