Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue’s Chiefs

Chief Ken Grimes began his role as Fire Chief of Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District in 2025, bringing with him over 45 years of experience in fire, EMS, and emergency management. Raised on a barrier island, Chief Grimes understands the unique challenges of coastal communities and has dedicated his career to public safety and leadership.

Chief Grimes started his fire service career with Longboat Key Fire Rescue, where he began as a volunteer firefighter before advancing to Firefighter/EMT, Paramedic, and Fire Lieutenant.

In 1993, Chief Grimes became a founding member of the Key Biscayne Fire Department, helping build the agency from the ground up while integrating emergency services with the City of Miami Fire Rescue. As Accreditation Manager, he led the department to become the 9th fire department in the world to earn accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). He later became an assessor for CFAI, evaluating fire departments nationwide.

Chief Grimes then transitioned into the private sector, first leading Bayflite, one of the nation’s busiest trauma helicopter programs in the world. He later took on leadership roles in the air medical community, culminating as Vice President for Global Medical Response (GMR), the world’s largest provider of emergency medical services and fire response.

Returning to local public service, Chief Grimes served as EMS and Fire Operations Manager for Pinellas County, overseeing interlocal agreements, specialized response teams, and emergency planning.

Now, as Fire Chief of Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District, Chief Grimes applies his leadership experience in fire service, EMS, and large-scale operations to serve both its barrier island and mainland communities.