MEET THE SENIOR CONSULTANT
Michael J. Monds
Michael J. Monds is a distinguished fire service executive with 26 years of service in the Syracuse, New York Fire Department, including eight years as Fire Chief. As a Senior Consultant with Civic Leadership Search Partners, he brings deep operational expertise, executive leadership experience, and a proven record of organizational transformation to complex public safety leadership searches.
Widely respected across the fire service profession, Chief Monds is known for strengthening operational performance, professional standards, and organizational culture—making him a trusted advisor to search committees and governing bodies.
LEADERSHIP
Executive Fire Service Leadership
Organizational Transformation & Modernization
Budget Oversight & Fiscal Accountability
Workforce Leadership & Labor Relations
Accreditation, Standards & Performance Excellence
Emergency Services Operations & Readiness
Strategic Recruiting & Executive Mentorship
Community-Focused Leadership
National Fire Service Perspective
EXPERERIENCE
Fire Chief, Syracuse Fire Department (8 years)
26-year veteran of the Syracuse Fire Department
Fifth-longest-serving Chief in the department’s 148-year history
Led comprehensive departmental reorganization and modernization
Achieved ISO Class 1 rating—the highest national fire protection standard
Named New York State Fire Chief of the Year (2023)
Managed over $333M in operating and capital budgets
Maintained expenditures within 1% of budget allocations
Oversaw a workforce of approximately 400 employees
Experience advising civic leaders and public safety executives
ABOUT Michael J. Monds
A proud Syracuse native, Michael J. Monds dedicated his career to public service through leadership in one of New York’s most respected fire departments. As Fire Chief, he guided the organization through a period of significant transformation, modernizing operations, elevating professional standards, and improving service delivery across all divisions.
Under his leadership, the Syracuse Fire Department earned an elite ISO Class 1 rating—placing it among the highest-performing fire protection agencies in the nation. His disciplined fiscal management ensured operational and capital budgets exceeding $333 million were consistently maintained within tight margins, reflecting a strong commitment to accountability and stewardship.
Since completing his tenure as Fire Chief, Chief Monds has continued to serve the public safety profession through consulting, executive mentorship, and strategic advising. His work focuses on optimizing labor relations, strengthening organizational culture, enhancing operational performance, and advancing resilient, community-focused fire and emergency services.
Finding The Right Fit For You
Michael J. Monds supports search committees by bringing a practitioner’s perspective to fire service leadership selection. His experience leading a large urban department enables him to assess executive readiness, operational judgment, and cultural fit—helping organizations identify fire service leaders prepared to lead with credibility and confidence.