VCOS and EFO Release New Report to Assist in First 100 Days as a Chief

Atlanta, Georgia -- The most challenging period for a new or interim chief is the first 100 days. Many people are thrust into the position and often lack guidance into what is a significant change for the organization, you and your family. The first 100 days are also the most critical for the new or interim chief as they set the tone for their administration for the organization.

The Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), in partnership with the Executive Fire Officers (EFO) Section of the IAFC, is excited to announce at Fire-Rescue International the release of a new report You’re the Fire Chief, Now What? – Guidance for New & Interim Chiefs. VCOS and EFO Section developed this document to provide guidance for a new or interim chief’s first 100 days. This new report lays out the key things a new or interim chief needs to know and be thinking about on the first day, during the first week, during the first month, and during months two through six. It also provides advice and warnings for a new or interim chief to help them avoid common mistakes.

This report approached the transitional phase of a new or interim chief in a format similar to incident command and introducing concepts found in the USFA Planning P, as well as the common transitional process known as the first 100-days plan. As a first-time fire chief, the transition is likely is from an officer position, whether battalion chief, assistant chief or possibly even a company officer. Having served in an officer position, the importance of proper incident management is known Using the Planning P concept, the new chief needs to  size-up the organization,  and provide planning and operations during  your transition into the head of the organization to maintain continuity of operations Approach your transition, whether permanent or interim, similar to  addressing an incident; assess the situation, get all of the stakeholders involved, conduct regular briefings, perform reconnaissance and deploy the plan; then start your way around the Planning P again and again until you bring the situation under control, and you feel comfortable that you are approaching the event effectively. As the FEMA Planning P indicates, “Execute, evaluate, and revise the plan.”

VCOS and EFO strongly encourage you to download and add this crucial guidance to your toolkit and the toolkits of the future leaders of your organization.

Attending FRI? Stop by the IAFC Solution Center Booth #2923 and pick up a print version of the guidance, while supplies last.  

Also, check out the Spark Zone session on Saturday, August 10 at 11 AM to discuss this topic in more detail and have a chance to talk to representatives from VCOS and EFO, who helped author the document. We will be live-streaming the discussion on the VCOS Facebook Page if you would like to join in virtually.

View the Report