DAVE SPEED

Dave is a seasoned fire services leader with over 30 years of experience, most recently serving as Fire Chief for the Municipality of Clarington until his retirement in September 2025. His career began in 1995 as a firefighter with the Town of Markham, progressing through roles in fire prevention and inspection, and later serving as Chief Fire Prevention Officer in Whitby.

Dave held senior leadership roles with Oshawa Fire Services as Deputy Chief, and returned to Whitby as Fire Chief, where he was later promoted to interim CAO and Commissioner of Operations/Fire Chief. In 2023, he joined Clarington’s composite fire service as Fire Chief, where he led strategic initiatives until his retirement.

Known for his strategic leadership and data-driven decision-making, Dave developed Whitby’s first Fire Master Plan and Community Risk Assessment and led Clarington’s Fire Response Risk Analysis. His ability to align fire service goals with municipal priorities ensured timely and budget-conscious implementation of Council-approved strategies.

Dave’s passion for public safety and innovation has driven his involvement in initiatives such as the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, serving as Executive Director of the CFSA, and contributing to the OAFC Equity and Diversity Committee.