Branson, MO – Fire Chief

About the Position

Are you a strategic, community-focused fire service leader who can lead high-performing teams, manage complex emergency operations, and guide a department in a dynamic tourism environment? If so, apply to be the City of Branson’s next Fire Chief!

We’re looking for an exceptional, visible leader who is:

• Highly experienced in fire service leadership
• A strong communicator with financial and operational expertise
• A mentor-minded professional committed to safety and accountability

Branson, Missouri, is a vibrant, tourism-driven community nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, known for its natural beauty, live entertainment, and strong sense of community. With approximately 12,869 residents and millions of annual visitors, Branson offers a unique blend of small-town charm and large-scale destination appeal. Branson operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The Mayor is elected at-large, and the six-member Board of Aldermen is elected by ward.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned fire service professional with extensive leadership experience in complex, high-demand environments. They bring a strategic mindset and lead with confidence, integrity, and transparency. A strong communicator, this individual builds trust across the organization and community while maintaining accountability and professionalism.

They are a visible and approachable leader who prioritizes safety, innovation, and team development. The successful candidate has experience in a unionized environment and demonstrates the ability to foster positive labor-management relationships. They are skilled in collaborative problem-solving, contract administration, and supporting collective bargaining processes, balancing organizational goals with workforce trust.

REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Fire Administration, or related field
• Minimum eight (8) years of progressive leadership experience, including command-level roles
• Firefighter I & II, Fire Officer I, Instructor I, and HazMat certifications
• FEMA NIMS certifications (IS-100, 200, 700)

PREFERRED:

• Executive Fire Officer (EFO) certification
• Master’s degree or advanced leadership training
• Experience in high-call-volume or tourism-based communities
• Experience working in a unionized fire service environment, including involvement in labor relations and collective bargaining

The City of Branson is offering a competitive salary range of 106,000 – $130,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

For more information on this position, contact:

Rudy Jackson, Senior Vice President

[email protected]  | (817) 897-8080