After an extensive search Oxnard Interim City Manager, Karen Burnham announced this morning that she has selected James A. Williams II for the job of Oxnard Fire Chief. It is expected that Williams will assume his duties as Fire Chief in the early part of March 2013.
“I know that James Williams’ exceptional qualifications make him the best fit for our City,” said Burnham. “Chief Williams brings with him well over 25 years of exemplary service in all aspects of Fire Department management, coupled with a deep rooted understanding of the needs of a diverse community such as our City,” said Burnham.
In his current role as Deputy Chief of the Oakland Fire Department, Fire Prevention & Support Services Bureau (FP&SSB), James Williams oversees three distinct divisions: Fire Prevention & Public Education Outreach, Fire Communications & Information Technology and Training & Support Services. As the Deputy Chief responsible for these divisions, Deputy Chief Williams manages fire prevention efforts through the implementation of fire code, vegetation management, and hazardous materials inspection programs; directs fire investigation efforts; and oversees public education and associated programs to promote community prevention preparedness. Williams provides supervision and direction to the Operations’ training program director, directs the Fire Communications Dispatch Center, and oversees facilities and fleet management programs and processes.
“I am honored to have been selected as the City’s new Fire Chief,” said James Williams. “The City of Oxnard has a strong reputation for being a professional organization and I’m looking forward to being a contributor,” he said. “Oxnard’s multi-ethnic culture is a shining example of how diverse groups of people can work well together,” said Williams. “I look forward to working with the community, members of the fire department and the entire City of Oxnard team,” added Williams.
Prior to his current position, Deputy Chief Williams directed the Operations Division which includes 501 personnel and includes oversight of an approximate $107 million budget. He has supervised and managed the day-to-day emergency operations, which includes management of 25 fire stations in addition to leading the project team for a new Fire Station construction project (Gold Leed Certification), the Special Operations Division, the Training Division, three Battalions and 12 Battalion Chiefs and supervised fire ground operations. Additionally, he provides representation of the Oakland Fire Department to City Council and commission meetings, and develops budget and planning objectives to help facilitate departmental needs.
As a progressive fire service leader, his leadership style and skills reflect a proven track record that has helped successfully build strong coalitions towards public safety policy. His leadership philosophy has been effective management by defining and communicating expectations and he emphasizes commitment, service and professionalism through dedicated teamwork, while encouraging personal responsibility, accountability and growth.
Chief Williams is a Certified Chief Officer and a Certified Company Officer through the California State Fire Marshal’s Office. He is a graduate of the Carl Holmes Executive Development Institute at Dillard University. Additionally, he is a Hazardous Materials Specialist and adjunct instructor at the collegiate level.
Contact:
Christina Aerenlund
Public Information Officer
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