Craig Buckley Appointed as Fire Chief

City Manager Mario Vasquez is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Buckley as Fire Chief of the Kansas City Fire Department. Chief Buckley brings decades of experience in fire and emergency services leadership to one of the city's most critical public safety roles.

Buckley joins Kansas City following a distinguished career in municipal fire service leadership, including service as Interim Fire Chief for the City of Orlando Fire Department. His background includes overseeing complex emergency response operations, managing large, diverse teams, and leading departments through periods of transition, with an emphasis on training, preparedness, and professional development.

"Chief Buckley is a seasoned leader with a deep understanding of what it takes to run a modern fire department," said City Manager Mario Vasquez. "Beyond his operational experience, he is committed to developing the next generation of leaders within the Kansas City Fire Department, ensuring the organization remains strong, resilient, and ready for the future."

As Fire Chief, Buckley will focus on operational excellence, workforce development, and supporting a culture of leadership at all levels of the department. His appointment reflects the City's continued emphasis on building long-term capacity within public safety organizations while maintaining high standards of service for residents.

The City also recognizes and thanks Chief Ross Grundyson for his steady leadership over the Fire Department. Grundyson guided the department through an important transition period and concludes his service with a legacy of professionalism and dedication to Kansas City.

"Chief Grundyson has been a trusted and respected leader within the organization," Vasquez said. "Kansas City is grateful for his service and wishes him the very best in retirement."

Buckley's appointment is effective Monday, January 26. Chief Buckley will be available for sit-down interviews with the press in the coming weeks. To schedule an interview or for questions, media may contact Sherae Honeycutt, Press Secretary of Kansas City, at [email protected].