Cayman Islands Fire Service veteran Randy Rankin will take the helm as chief fire officer when Paul Walker leaves the post later this year.
A statement released by the Government Information Services on Thursday, 20 Jan., said Rankin was selected as designate fire chief following an “intensive” recruitment drive led by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Rankin has worked for the Fire Service for 28 years, and currently serves as the division manager of domestic operations. He is also the deputy chair of the UK Overseas Territories Search and Rescue Committee.
“As part of the Fire Service’s evolving mission to prepare for, prevent, mitigate and respond to all hazards, I look forward to working alongside my colleagues, our partners, and community members to tackle several strategic priorities,” Rankin said in a statement. “I am proud to be a part of an experienced and dynamic team of fire-rescue and public safety professionals.
“Together we will work tirelessly for the people of the Cayman Islands, strengthening our culture of safety, investing in the professionalism of our fire fighters, and embracing service innovation – all while ensuring that we retain the traditions of the Fire Service which are the source of much pride for so many.”
During his tenure, Rankin has been credited with helping to establish a local inshore/maritime search-and-rescue unit within the Fire Service to work with the Cayman Islands Coast Guard, and contributing to the amalgamation of 911/fire dispatch communications.
Outgoing Chief Fire Officer Walker’s one-year contract was extended by two years in 2020 so that he could put in place a succession plan that would see a Caymanian take up the fire chief role when he left, and he was one of the people on the recruitment panel.
“As a panelist, I was impressed with all of the candidates and will continue for the remainder of my tenure with the CIFS to provide direct support for each in respect of their personal development. In conjunction with other senior managers, I am looking forward to working even more closely with Mr. Rankin to progress the department’s identified priorities, projects and activities together with the ministry.”
According to the government statement, Walker and Rankin will work together for the next six months until Walker departs.
Deputy Governor Franz Manderson called on the public and the Fire Service to support the appointment of a Caymanian as the next chief fire officer, adding, “Mr. Rankin has demonstrated his versatility as a leader in the emergency management space and as a first responder who serves the public with an obvious sense of urgency and passion.”
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