Fire Chief Douglas E. Riley

Douglas E. Riley was appointed Fire Chief of the Lakeland Fire Department in December 2017. In this role, Chief Riley oversees all fire department operations and serves as a key advisor to the City of Lakeland's leadership team on matters of public safety and fire protection.

Chief Riley began his career with the City of Lakeland Fire Department on March 9, 1987, when he was hired as a firefighter. Over the next three decades, he steadily advanced through the ranks, showcasing exceptional leadership and dedication. He was promoted to Driver/Engineer in March 1992, Fire Lieutenant in January 1995, and Battalion Chief in June 2004. In January 2010, he assumed the role of Assistant Chief of Operations, where he served until his promotion to Fire Chief in December 2017.

A proud graduate of Lakeland Senior High School (Class of 1984), Chief Riley pursued higher education to complement his professional growth. He earned two associate degrees, one in Fire Science and the other in Nursing, from Polk Community College and a Bachelor's degree in Business from the University of South Florida in 2012.

Chief Riley's credentials include certifications as a Registered Nurse, Paramedic, Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor, and Fire Inspector. He is also a graduate of prestigious leadership programs, including:

Florida State University's Certified Public Manager Program
Florida Fire Chiefs' Association's (FFCA) Emergency Services Leadership Institute
International Association of Fire Chiefs' (IAFC) Fire Service Executive Development Institute (2018 cohort)

Chief Riley has been deeply involved with the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association (FFCA), where he served as President for two years following terms as First Vice President, Regional Director, and Secretary/Treasurer. In recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, Chief Riley was named the 2020 Florida Fire Chief of the Year by the FFCA. He is also an active member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

Beyond his contributions to fire services, Chief Riley is committed to community service and philanthropy in Lakeland. He is a graduate of Leadership Lakeland, a member of the Lakeland Rotary Club, and serves on the board of the PACE Center for Girls.

With over three decades of experience, Chief Riley continues to demonstrate dedication to public safety, professional excellence, and his beloved Lakeland community.