Kim Ayotte
Kim Ayotte has over 32 years of professional Emergency Services experience and is a motivating and supportive leader who exemplifies the “One City, One Team” philosophy. As General Manager of Emergency and Protective Services, Kim brings an empathetic but practical approach to providing emergency services to the residents and visitors of Ottawa.
After working in the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office for almost ten years, Kim joined the City of Ottawa in 2003 as Chief of Special Operations in Ottawa Fire Services. In this role he was successful in both creating Canada’s first Medium Urban Search and Rescue team and enhancing Ottawa’s role in CBRNE and Hazmat response.
Between 2011 and 2018, Kim held a series of Deputy Chief positions, where he fostered supportive, cooperative team environments and his goal of continuous improvement helped further the goals of the Emergency and Protective Services Department.
In 2018 Kim became Ottawa’s Fire Chief. As Chief, Kim’s analytical and disciplined manner made him indispensable in overseeing a number of cross-functional teams, as well as in the successful management of several city-wide emergencies.
As Chief, Kim was also a champion of an improved recruitment strategy focusing on diversity and worked hard to ensure a safe and inclusive Fire Service for all members.
Kim’s dedication to emergency services is exemplified by his recognition with The Governor General Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal for 20 years of service (2009) and 30 years (2019), as well as The Fire Service Long Service Medal for 25 years of service (2014).
In May 2021 Kim accepted an acting General Manager position for Emergency and Protective Services where his proven track record establishing innovative and creative ways to address and resolve issues helped the Department further its operational and strategic goals while also responding to an unprecedented pandemic.
Most recently, as the permanent General Manager of Emergency and Protective Services, Kim was heavily involved in the prolonged convoy demonstration, which involved an integrated response with all levels of government and law enforcement, in addition to providing strategic oversight to the Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Fire Services, By-law and Regulatory Services and the Public Safety Service, which are among the service areas under his purview.
