Oshawa appoints new Comissioner of Safety and Facilities

Markham’s Fire Chief and reigning Ontario Fire Chief of the Year will now be putting out more than just fires after Adam Grant was appointed the new Commissioner of Oshawa’s Safety and Facilities department, effective August 8.

Grant joined Markham Fire in 2006 and was appointed Chief in November 2020. He was named 2023 Chief of the Year by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs for his outstanding leadership, innovation and contributions in the fire sector.

As Fire Chief Grant was responsible for the oversight and direction of the fire suppression team; preparation and management of the department operating budget; labour relations and collective agreement negotiations; public education; fire prevention; investigations; and occupational health and safety.

In his new role in Oshawa – a position created with the new term of office last year – he will report to CAO Tracy Adams and oversee Facilities Management Services, Fire Services, Municipal Law Enforcement and Licensing Services as well as the Oshawa Executive Airport. These business areas deliver and maintain City infrastructure as well as provide critical programs and services for the safety of all residents.

“Mr. Grant brings a passion for diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and vast demonstrated experience as a strategic and collaborative leader,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “We look forward to his leadership and guidance.”

Grant brings extensive experience as a strategic, innovative and collaborative leader who has a passion for diversity, equity and inclusion and has a history in working collaboratively with cross-functional teams. He also has experience with facilities management, municipal law enforcement, municipal airports, emergency services and union leadership.

His volunteer experience includes his current appointment as Chair, Governance Committee for the Children’s Treatment Network that supports child and youth with special needs, and formerly as a member of the St. John Ambulance York Region Board of Directors.

Adams called Grant an “innovative municipal leader” who has had success in leading high-performing teams and delivering new strategies and programs. “His collaborative leadership style will guide the Safety and Facilities Services Department and contribute greatly to our organization.”