Markham fire division chief Matthew Keay promoted to deputy chief

Keay will be responsible for fire prevention, public education and Battalions 2 and 4

Yorkregion.com
March 5, 2021
Heidi Riedner

Markham Fire and Emergency Services’ Division Chief Matthew Keay has been promoted to deputy chief.

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti said the appointment was well deserved, noting Keay brings an impressive record of accomplishment to the role with over 20 years with the Markham fire department.

Keay joined the department in June 2000 as a firefighter before serving in various roles, including captain, chief training officer and division chief -- training.

“I am confident that Deputy Chief Keay’s experience will be an asset to the leadership team of Markham fire and complements Chief Adam Grant’s vision to modernize the service and to focus on innovation,” Scarpitti said.

Markham chief administrative officer Andy Taylor also thanked Keay for serving as acting-deputy chief during the pandemic and his support during this leadership transition.

“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 Taylor, adding his appointment is a testament to the department’s focus on professional development and mentorship.

Fire Chief Adam Grant said Keay is a welcome addition to the management team, describing him as “very driven, professional and produces excellent work.”

Grant credited Keay with transforming the training division over the last few years, pointing to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) courses and professional development curriculum as just a few examples of the many improvements he’s made.

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.

Markham announces Adam Grant as city's new fire chief

 

Grant was appointed the new chief of Markham Fire and Emergency Services by a unanimous vote of city council in November.