Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Kaye as the new Fire Chief and will officially welcome him to the role on February 1, 2024.

With 25 years of dedicated service, including 18 years in leadership roles, Kaye brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership experience to the Saanich Fire Department.

“With extensive experience in fire services, coupled with his proven leadership capabilities, Chief Kaye is well equipped to lead our department into the future,” said Brent Reems, Chief Administrative Officer. “I am confident that he and our team of dedicated fire service professionals will not only continue to uphold the core values that underpin past successes but also drive progress to ensure that challenges are met, and opportunities are realized – all in service to the community.”

Kaye is a long-serving member of Saanich Fire, starting as a suppression fire fighter in 1998. He has held various positions throughout his career, including Communications Officer, Assistant Deputy Chief, and most recently, Deputy Chief of Operations. Outside of Saanich Fire, he received the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for community service and leadership and has been a long-serving Board Member with Muscular Dystrophy Canada. Kaye holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Victoria, a Certificate in Business Analysis from the University of Toronto and is certified as an Executive Chief Fire Officer through the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.

“As a Saanich resident and a long-time member of Saanich Fire Department, I am enthusiastic about this opportunity and look forward to continuing to serve my community in this role,” said Chief Michael Kaye. “Thank you to the Mayor, Council, and our CAO for placing their trust in me with this important role, and to my family for their endless support.”

As Fire Chief, Kaye will oversee all aspects of fire and emergency program services in Saanich. This includes leading a team of 140 firefighters and staff across three stations, and providing strategic direction to ensure emergency and fire services continue to meet the needs of the municipality into the future.

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Media contact:

Saanich Communications
250-475-7633
media@saanich.ca