The Town of Whitby has appointed a new acting fire chief as the municipality prepares for a leadership transition within Whitby Fire and Emergency Services.
Municipal officials confirmed that Mark Pankhurst, a veteran firefighter with more than 30 years of experience in fire services, will serve as Interim Fire Chief for Whitby beginning March 16.
The appointment comes as the town begins the process of recruiting a permanent fire chief to lead the department.
Pankhurst brings extensive experience in fire services leadership across Ontario. Throughout his career, he has served in several senior positions, including Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief roles in multiple municipalities.
His previous leadership roles include positions with Ajax Fire and Emergency Services, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue, and Rama Fire and Rescue Service.
In addition to his municipal leadership experience, Pankhurst has also worked at the provincial level as a Fire Services Liaison with the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs. In that role, he worked closely with fire departments across Ontario to support professional standards, collaboration, and emergency response improvements.
Town officials say his background and leadership experience will help ensure continuity and stability for the Whitby fire department during the transition period.
Pankhurst will take over the interim position from Michael Hickey, who has served as Whitby’s Fire Chief since early 2023.
Hickey has had a long history with the Whitby Fire Service. His career with the department began in 1998, when he joined as a volunteer firefighter.
After two years of volunteer service, Hickey was hired as a full-time firefighter in 2000. Over the next two decades, he advanced through the ranks of the department, eventually becoming Deputy Fire Chief in 2021.
His promotion to Fire Chief in 2023 marked another milestone in his long-standing service to the community.
While the town transitions leadership, Whitby officials confirmed that the recruitment process for a permanent Fire Chief is currently underway.
Municipal leaders are expected to review candidates in the coming months to determine who will permanently lead Whitby Fire and Emergency Services, which is responsible for fire prevention, emergency response, rescue services, and public safety across the town.
Whitby Fire and Emergency Services plays an essential role in protecting residents and businesses throughout the municipality and responding to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous situations, and rescue incidents.
Town officials say residents can continue to expect the same level of emergency service during the transition period.
More information about Whitby Fire and Emergency Services, including fire safety resources and community programs, can be found on the Town of Whitby’s official website.
