Brian MacLeod

Captain, Community Relations Officer

A career firefighter since 2000, Brian MacLeod is Richmond Fire-Rescue’s Community Relations Officer.

This position is responsible for increasing community safety through planning, organizing, promoting and directing effective fire and life safety public education and community relations programs in the community. Brian also serves as a liaison that builds and maintains trust, goodwill and strong links with Richmond Fire-Rescue staff, city divisions, community partners and the community.

Brian chose a career in firefighting because he wanted to be able to look back on his life, once he retired, knowing he spent the better part of it being able to give back to his community and help people in need.

Brian enjoys the challenges Richmond provides in emergency response opportunities. As an island, there is always a water concern with multiple watercraft mariners and ships coming and going. As well, Richmond has major highways in the Lower Mainland, including the Massey Tunnel. There’s also farmland, urban centres, industrial locations and the airport to deal with, providing a never-ending variety of learning experiences.

Brian is the proud recipient of the Public Educator of the Year award from the BCPFFA, the Award of Merit from the Vancouver Police Department, as well as Firefighter of the Year from the Richmond Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to his career as a firefighter with Richmond Fire-Rescue, Brian worked in radio as an on-air personality. His radio connections led him to 4-year stint with the BC Wildfire Service, as a member of the the helitack program. In turn, that forestry job provided him with the education and skills to allow him to pursue a professional full-time career with Richmond Fire-Rescue. 

After 15 years of service as a firefighter, it was a natural next step for Brian to take on the position of Community Relations Officer, and use his experience in public speaking and media to benefit the department and our community.