The city embarked on a recruitment process for a new fire chief in June of 2024, after current chief Michael Clark announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31, 2024.
"The city conducted a thorough and inclusive search to find a candidate who embodies the dedication and vision necessary for the role," noted a recent memo to Orillia's mayor and city councillors from CAO Gayle Jackson.
"We are pleased to announce that Chris Ferry is the successful candidate for the fire chief position and will begin the role effective January 2025," noted the memo.
"Ferry has proven experience in core areas, including emergency management, health and safety, and public education, and has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in both operations and leadership," noted the memo.
"He is dedicated to professional development and continuously works to improve his skillset and empowers those around him to do the same."
We asked the incoming chief about his new role.
OrilliaMatters: Could you tell us a bit about your experience in fire services? When did you start? What roles have you had over the years?
Chris Ferry: I’ve been dedicated to fire service for 27 years. I started my career as a volunteer firefighter with the Severn Township Fire Department. In 2001, I transitioned to a full-time firefighter position with the City of Toronto.
In 2003, I joined the Orillia Fire Department, and over the years I’ve taken on increasing responsibilities. From firefighter to acting captain, then captain, and now deputy fire chief. In every role I have made a point to continue growing and learning, always striving to continuously improve my skillset for the community and the team I serve with.
OM: What’s the exact date you’re taking the job? What does becoming fire chief mean for you? Has this been a goal of yours for some time?
Ferry: I will officially step into the role of fire chief in January 2025 following Chief Clark’s retirement. This opportunity means a great deal to me, not just professionally, but also personally.
Giving back to the department and the community where I have spent the majority of my career, where I grew up, and where I have raised my kids, means a great deal to me. My family has deep roots in Orillia and a long history of working in the fire service.
I am excited to continue following in these footsteps and giving back, alongside our excellent team. My goal at the start of my career was to do the best job possible to help those in need and continue to improve myself all the time. Rising through the ranks has helped me to improve myself and my leadership abilities, which I intend to use as the fire chief.
OM: Firefighting can be challenging work. What keeps you at it? Do you have any experiences that make it all worthwhile?
Ferry: Firefighting is definitely a challenging career, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. In my 27 years, I’ve faced thousands of emergencies, each with its own set of challenges. It’s seeing those positive outcomes, knowing that we’ve made a difference on someone’s worst day, that keeps me motivated.
Our team of firefighters, dispatchers, and emergency responders are exceptional at what they do, and they face stress daily to serve our community. Our fire prevention team is on the front lines, actively working to keep Orillia safe, and they do an outstanding job.
Witnessing our career and volunteer firefighters rise to these challenges, succeed, and receive positive feedback from the community makes it all worth it.
OM: Chief Clark has around 40 years of experience in fire services. How has working with him prepared you for the role? Do you feel you have big shoes to fill?
Ferry: I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many fantastic mentors over my career, including Chief Clark. Their experience and leadership have been invaluable, giving me a solid foundation in both operations and management, and helping me develop the confidence and skills I need to step into this role.
While Chief Clark certainly leaves a strong legacy, I’m ready to take on the responsibility with our incredible team we have at the Orillia Fire Department. We’re well prepared to continue the exceptional service this community expects and deserves.
