West Vancouver hires new Fire Chief
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
West Vancouver, BC: The District of West Vancouver is pleased to announce the hiring of Jim Cook as Fire Chief. Cook comes to West Vancouver from the City of New Westminster where he is currently Deputy Chief.
Jim Cook started his firefighting career in 1977 in the City of New Westminster. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2000 and then promoted to Deputy Chief in 2001. Cook has completed the Fire Officer Program at the Justice Institute of BC (JIBC), a Fire Service Leadership Diploma, and he is currently working towards a Bachelor of Fire & Safety Studies through the University of Victoria and the JIBC. During his many years of service, Cook has held positions on the following committees and boards: the BC Professional Firefighters Association, BC Municipal Pension Board, BC Investment Management Corporation, VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, and the Fire Service Advisory Committee. Cook is currently the President of the Greater Vancouver Fire Chiefs Association.
Jim Cook brings many strengths to West Vancouver, including extensive knowledge of dispatch and radio communication systems, labour relations, staff development, and succession planning. “Jim’s professional experience and skills will serve us well, as our Department continues to build valuable community outreach programs, as we look to the future of fire and rescue services, and as we plan for the 2010 Winter Olympics,” says CAO Grant McRadu.
“West Vancouver’s Fire & Rescue Service is comprised of well trained and dedicated employees with a distinguished record of protecting the community. I plan to lead the Department in the further development of effective and sustainable solutions that will allow staff to continue to provide excellent customer service during peak periods of demand,” says Jim Cook.
Jim Cook will join the District of West Vancouver Fire & Rescue as Fire Chief on Monday, September 29th, 2008.
-30-
Media Contact:
Donna Powers
Communications Supervisor
604-925-7168