Longtime Port Coquitlam firefighter Robert Kipps is getting a promotion — to the top of the department.
The current deputy fire chief of operations has been chosen to take over after Fire Chief Nick Delmonico announced his retirement earlier this year.
"I am truly honoured to serve as the fire chief for the city of Port Coquitlam and excited for the opportunity to lead our great team," Kipps said in city a press release Thursday. "Our fire department has a long history of dedicated and professional service to the community and I look forward to building on this foundation of excellence and commitment to the community I am a part of in the years to come."
Kipps has 28 years of fire service and and moved into a management position with the PoCo department in 2014. In his previous role, he oversaw the operations of the suppression division and took a lead role with the organization's strategic planning, finances and labour relations, according to the city. He has a masters in leadership from Royal Roads University and is a graduate of the Fire Executive Management Program.
The walkout ceremony for Delmonico will take place Friday, Sept. 13.
"I would like to thank Chief Delmonico for his dedication and the outstanding service he has provided our community over the past eight years," said PoCo Mayor Brad West. "He has played a leadership role not just in our community but the region. I wish him the best as he begins this exciting new chapter."
