FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The City of Flagstaff has named Fire Chief Mark Gaillard its 2025 Leader of the Year, recognizing his dedication to public safety, leadership, and service to the Flagstaff community.
The annual award honors a City leader who exemplifies integrity, professionalism, dedication, accountability, ethical leadership, problem-solving, and a commitment to empowering others.
Since taking the helm of the Flagstaff Fire Department, Chief Gaillard has led several initiatives aimed at improving emergency services and strengthening community resilience. Among his accomplishments was partnering with the Flagstaff Police Department to evaluate and enhance computer-aided dispatch (CAD) processes, resulting in more accurate unit deployment and improved emergency response times.
Chief Gaillard also played a key role in addressing the growing homeowners insurance crisis affecting Flagstaff residents. He worked with state and national organizations, government officials, and insurance representatives to explore long-term solutions that support wildfire-resilient neighborhoods and help homeowners better protect their properties.
City officials also praised Chief Gaillard’s leadership during some of the department’s most difficult moments. Following the tragic loss of two members of the Flagstaff Fire Department, he provided support and guidance to firefighters and staff while maintaining a strong focus on communication, regularly meeting with crews and encouraging open dialogue.
Assistant City Manager Shannon Anderson commended Chief Gaillard’s commitment to both the profession and the community.
“Chief Gaillard is dedicated to the fire service profession. This is witnessed in the actions he takes on a daily basis and his constant willingness to help. We are so grateful for his contributions and congratulate him as the 2025 Leader of the Year!”
City Manager Joanne Keene also praised his leadership, saying:
“Chief Gaillard’s leadership has been a steadying force for the Flagstaff Fire Department. In navigating tragedy and driving the organization forward, he continues to demonstrate exceptional dedication to the safety and well-being of our community. Team Flagstaff is grateful for his service.”
The annual Leader of the Year award is presented in honor of Mary Jo Jenkins, who served the City of Flagstaff for more than 25 years and was widely recognized for her ethics, integrity, and leadership. The award continues her legacy by recognizing City employees who embody those same values.
Chief Gaillard’s recognition highlights his ongoing efforts to improve emergency response, support his firefighters, and strengthen the safety and resilience of the Flagstaff community.
