Richmond will have a new fire chief on May 1.
Jim Wishlove, who has most recently served as the deputy chief of Richmond Fire-Rescue, takes over the top job from long-time chief Tim Wilkinson who recently announced his retirement.
“Jim Wishlove has been a long-serving member of the Richmond Fire-Rescue team with a dedicated commitment to our community and emergency services colleagues,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie in a media release. “Not only does he bring extensive experience and expertise to the position, but his knowledge and awareness of Richmond and our dedicated fire-rescue teams will be invaluable in their ongoing commitment to keep Richmond safe.”
Wishlove was a volunteer firefighter before joining Richmond Fire-Rescue in 1990. Since then, he served as a firefighter, dispatcher and instructor in several disciplines before his promotion to deputy chief in 2009.
In 2012, Wishlove was hired as deputy fire chief for the City of New Westminster, where he worked for six years.
He then returned to Richmond as deputy chief of operations, overseeing the day-to-day operational duties of the emergency response crews delivering services to the community.
“I am honoured to take on this important role and the challenges and responsibilities that go with it,” said Wishlove. “I feel extremely proud to be part of such a fine organization. By embarking on this new journey, I look forward to supporting our staff as we continue to grow and ensure that we stay at the forefront of the very best of the professional fire service.”
Wishlove also praised his predecessor, retiring Chief Tim Wilkinson. “I extend my sincerest gratitude to Chief Wilkinson who gave me an incredible opportunity as a deputy chief, and for his mentorship and support,” he said, adding he wishes him “good health and happiness in his retirement.”
A life-long B.C. resident, Wishlove – who calls Richmond home - has certifications from the Justice Institute, the Sauder School of Business, Capilano College and Simon Fraser University, and is a recipient of the City of Richmond’s Corporate University Award of Distinction in Leadership.
Wishlove is also an avid piper, having appeared on stage twice with Sir Paul McCartney during his Vancouver concerts, as well as piping for many local and community events in Richmond and the region.
