London’s first female fire chief takes helm during troubled times

The first woman fire chief in London’s history, who cut her teeth in a different end of the profession, says she can lead differently. Newly-minted chief Lori Hamer is taking over the top job at a tumultuous time, as the London fire department looks to stabilize after harassment allegations and claims of a “toxic” workplace prompted city hall to launch an investigation and culture review in March. “I’m humbled and honoured, obviously, to be working alongside all the men and women at the London fire department,” Hamer said Monday, after a weekend where crews battled two serious blazes. Hamer, who’s been with the London fire department since 2016, when she was hired as a deputy chief of communications, has made it a central goal to meet with fire crews and hear directly from employees about concerns since she took over as acting chief in March. Her career in firefighting has been spent in communications and management.

Hamer was appointed acting chief as the fire department became embroiled in workplace harassment allegations, and after former chief John Kobarda’s retirement was suddenly announced. Acting deputy chief Jack Burt called it “a new frontier,” describing Hamer as an open leader. Union boss Jason Timlick said Hamer’s style is “refreshing.” “I’ve seen a change under her leadership as fire chief,” Timlick, president of the London Professional Fire Fighters Association, said. “What she’s been able to achieve over the past couple months as acting fire chief is amazing.”