New Fire Chief Named In Loudoun County As Keith Johnson Plans Retirement

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — A fire and rescue leader with deep roots in Loudoun County fire service will become the system's new chief as Keith Johnson retires.

Loudoun County Administrator Tim Hemstreet announced James Williams as the new chief of the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System, effective April 11. Johnson will retire in April, per his previously announcement to depart the role. The new appointment comes after a nationwide search.

"Throughout his career, Chief Williams has displayed a commitment to delivering prompt, effective and professional fire, rescue and EMS services to the community,” said Hemstreet in a statement. "He has played a key role in ensuring the success of our combined system of career and volunteer personnel and I am confident that under his leadership, the county’s fire and rescue system will continue to provide the community with world-class services."

Williams will oversee a fire and rescue system working to improve emergency response protocols following the February 2024 Sterling house explosion that killed Firefighter Trevor Brown. The system has also been advocating for getting sprinkler systems in more residential homes, which the fire department says can save lives and prevent significant property damage.

Williams has been with Loudoun County Fire and Rescue since 2001, starting as a firefighter recruit. He rose through the ranks as captain, battalion chief and deputy chief and most recently assistant chief of operations since 2018. In the most recent position, Williams has overseen daily management and administration of fire and rescue services as well as emergency medical services, training and special operations. According to the county government, Williams has advocated for first responder health, helping to establish the system's Center for Fitness, Wellness, and Support Services and the start of a behavioral health program.

Williams has a bachelor’s degree from Bates College and a master’s degree in public administration from Virginia Tech. He is a certified public manager by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Institute for Regional Excellence and George Washington University Center for Excellence in Municipal Management and completed the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Fire Service Executive Development Institute in 2023. He is affiliated with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Fire Department Safety Officer’s Association and the International City/County Management Association. Williams and his wife, Heather, have two children, Luke and Emma.