CEOs and leaders in both the private and public sector commonly employ chiefs of staff (CoS), but in the fire service, they are rare. Where they do exist, they are usually uniformed executive officers who do not have significant administrative management experience in large organizations. But this simple personnel decision – hiring a well-qualified and experienced CoS – can provide a fire chief with the focus and strategic support needed to drive change, improve performance and ensure stability for the organization.
Learning Objectives:
The student will be able to define the position of a chief of staff and describe the function within an organization.
The student will cite at least three benefits that follow the implementation of a chief of staff and note examples from a variety of sources.
The student will be able to understand the concept of organizational strategic planning and the need to monitor its progress over time.
The student will be understand the alternative methods for utilizing a chief of staff in smaller organizations or with civilian staff.