Today, Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) announced AJ Jackson will serve as the bureau’s Interim Fire Chief starting March 4 - overseeing 744 employees and an annual budget of almost $200 million. Jackson brings to the position over 25 years of experience with PF&R and is currently the Division Chief for Medical Services & Training.
“I appreciate Chief Jackson’s willingness to serve as interim chief during this time of transition,” said Deputy City Administrator for Public Safety Mike Myers. “Jackson previously served as Fire Marshal and is a respected leader with experience in Emergency Operations, Fire Prevention, and the Training Division.”
“I’m honored for this opportunity to lead the members of Portland Fire & Rescue,” Chief Jackson said. “I look forward to working in collaboration with fire bureau leadership, Portland Firefighters’ Association – Local 43, and city leadership to support the neighborhoods and communities of Portland. I appreciate the leadership provided by Chief Gillespie over the course of his career and wish him the best in his next chapter.”
Portland Fire Chief Ryan Gillespie recently announced he will retire from the bureau effective March 4, completing a 27-year career with the bureau. A national search for a permanent fire chief will begin in the coming months.
“AJ Jackson is an excellent choice to serve as Interim Fire Chief for Portland Fire & Rescue, bringing a wealth of fire service leadership experience and a high level of intelligence for solving complex issues. I am confident her extensive time as a member of PF&R’s executive team, her dedication to service to our community, and her compassion for all Portlanders makes AJ the right person to lead the fire department,” said Chief Gillespie.
"I am delighted to welcome AJ Jackson as the new interim Fire Chief for the City of Portland,” said Mayor Keith Wilson. “With over 25 years of dedicated service and progressive leadership in fire services, AJ has consistently demonstrated her commitment to community safety and innovative program implementation. Her impressive career and extensive experience make her an invaluable asset to our community.”