---
title: "Vancouver appoints Robert Weeks as new Fire Chief, effective November 2"
description: "Robert Weeks, who spent more than two decades with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services, will take over as Fire Chief on November 2, 2026, the City announced Thursday."
canonical_url: "https://voche.me/news/vfrs-new-fire-chief-robert-weeks-october-29"
last_updated: "2026-10-29T17:52:43.346Z"
---

The City of Vancouver announced on October 29, 2026 that Robert Weeks has been appointed the new Fire Chief of Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS), effective November 2, 2026. The City says the appointment followed a nationwide search.

Weeks has worked with VFRS for more than two decades, according to the City's announcement. He most recently served as Deputy Fire Chief, where he led portfolios covering training, recruitment, labour relations, occupational health and safety, capital planning and technology.

City Manager Donny van Dyk said in the announcement: "Robert is a highly respected leader who brings extensive experience, sound judgment and integrity to this important role. His deep understanding of the organization, collaborative approach and commitment to public service will help guide VFRS as it continues to meet the evolving needs of our city."

Weeks said he plans to focus on the training and support available to VFRS staff. "My priority is to strengthen our ability to respond to the evolving needs of our city by ensuring our teams have the training, equipment and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively," he said in the City's statement.

## A long career inside the organization

The City's announcement describes Weeks as having held frontline, officer and executive leadership roles throughout VFRS over his career. The City says he is "known for his strategic thinking, collaborative leadership style and dedication to supporting the people who serve Vancouver."

The City also thanked Interim Fire Chief Trevor Connelly "for his leadership and steady guidance throughout the transition."

## Taking office alongside the new council

Weeks will start as Fire Chief on November 2, 2026. That is the same day mayor-elect Pete Fry and the newly elected Vancouver City Council take office. The new council has named public safety and the city's response to homelessness among its early priorities. The Fire Chief works as part of the City's administrative structure, reporting to City management rather than directly to elected officials.

Residents who want to reach Vancouver Fire Rescue Services or ask questions about fire and emergency services in their area can call the City at 3-1-1 or visit vancouver.ca.

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