Markham Promotes Division Chief Matthew Keay to Deputy Chief, Fire and Emergency Services

Markhamstaffnews.ca
Feb. 25, 2021

The City of Markham is pleased to announce the appointment of Division Chief Matthew Keay to Deputy Chief effective March 1, 2021.

Incoming Deputy Chief Keay has more than 20 years of dedicated public service with the City of Markham. He joined Markham Fire and Emergency Services in June 2000 as a firefighter, later serving in roles including Captain, Chief Training Officer, and Division Chief -- Training. He has also served as Acting Assistant Deputy Chief for a nine-month term.

“Matthew Keay brings an impressive record of accomplishment to the role of Deputy Chief with over 20 years at Markham Fire, including serving as Captain and Division Chief responsible for training,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “I am confident that Deputy Chief Keay’s experience will be an asset to the leadership team of Markham Fire and complements Chief Grant’s vision to modernize the service and to focus on innovation. I extend my congratulations to Deputy Chief Keay and his family on this well-deserved appointment.”

“As a highly dedicated and exemplary public servant, I welcome Deputy Chief Keay’s appointment to the senior leadership team of Markham Fire and Emergency Services,” said Markham CAO Andy Taylor. “Deputy Chief Keay has served MFES for 20 years and his journey to becoming Deputy Chief is a testament to the organization’s focus on professional development and mentorship. I would also like to thank Deputy Chief Keay for serving as Acting-Deputy Chief during the pandemic and his support during this leadership transition.”

“Deputy Chief Keay is a welcome addition to our management team,” said Markham Fire and Emergency Services Fire Chief Adam Grant. “Deputy Chief Keay is very driven, professional and produces excellent work. He has transformed the training division over the last few years. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) courses and professional development curriculum are just a few examples of the many improvements he’s made. Deputy Chief Chris Nearing and I congratulate Deputy Chief Keay on his promotion and look forward to working with him in his new role.”

As the new Deputy Chief, Matthew Keay will be responsible for fire prevention, public education, and for Battalions 2 and 4. He will also take over from Fire Chief Adam Grant as the Co-Chair of Markham’s Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee.