Veteran firefighter Jeff Swann has been appointed by the State Government as the new Chief Officer of the SA Metropolitan Fire Service following a thorough recruitment process undertaken over recent months.
Mr Swann, who has been serving as Acting Chief Officer since December 2023, brings with him more than two decades of experience to the role.
Mr Swann joined the MFS as a recruit firefighter in 2000 and progressed through the ranks to Commander in 2017, Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer in 2021, and was appointed Deputy Chief Officer in 2023.
Throughout his career, Mr Swann has demonstrated exceptional leadership across various sectors within the MFS.
He represented the MFS on the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) Pacific Partnership Program, where he was a liaison to the Tonga Fire Emergency Services.
His commitment to community service extends beyond firefighting, with a history of surf lifesaving and being part of the helicopter rescue crew.
Mr Swann served as part of the MFS’s response to the Australian Bushfires of 2019-2020 and was awarded a National Emergency Medal for his service. He also received a South Australian Emergency Service Medal in 2022.
He will start his five-year term effective immediately.
Quotes
Attributable to Joe Szakacs
I want to congratulate Jeff Swann on his appointment and welcome him to the role of chief officer.
I have known Jeff for many years and have always found him to be a person of high integrity, diligence and work ethic.
Jeff’s unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the South Australian community, combined with his commendable leadership skills, make him a fantastic choice.
I wish him all the best in this role.
Attributable to Jeff Swann, MFS Chief Officer
I am deeply honoured to assume the role of Chief Officer for the Metropolitan Fire Service.
I am fully committed to doing the very best I can to inspire positive change across the fire service, and continue to uphold the well-respected reputation within our community.
