Mayor Steven L. Reed Announces Appointment of Russell G. Collier as Montgomery’s Fire Chief

Montgomery, Alabama - Mayor Steven L. Reed today announced the appointment of Chief Russell G. Collier as the full-time Chief of Montgomery Fire/Rescue (MFR). Collier, who has served as Interim Fire Chief since August 2025, assumes the permanent role following the retirement of former Chief Miford Jordan.

Chief Collier's career with Montgomery Fire/Rescue began in May 1998, shortly after his graduation from Wetumpka High School. Over the past 28 years, he has built a distinguished record of service across nearly every major operational and administrative function of the department. His experience includes roles in Fire Suppression, Emergency Medical Service, Inspections, Special Operations, and Standards/Compliance.

He later advanced into senior leadership, first as Chief Executive Officer, overseeing administrative operations, budget management, staffing, grant coordination, accreditation, ISO evaluation, and NFPA compliance, and then as Chief of Staff in 2024, where he was responsible for organizational alignment and executive coordination across all divisions. He served in that capacity until his appointment as Interim Fire Chief in August 2025.

Chief Collier holds an associate degree from Trenholm State Community College and numerous nationally recognized professional certifications from the Alabama Fire College, National Fire Academy, University of Maryland, and New Mexico Tech. He is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer by the Commission on Professional Credentialing and is a graduate of Leadership Montgomery Class XXXII and the National Fire Staff and Command Course. Among his many honors, he was named Montgomery Fire/Rescue's Firefighter of the Year in 2004. He also leads major departmental initiatives, including the Firefighter Combat Challenge and the annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony.

Mayor Reed praised the depth of Chief Collier's leadership and his unwavering commitment to public safety.

"Chief Collier has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his nearly three decades of service to our city," Mayor Reed said. "His commitment to excellence, his deep understanding of this department, and his steadfast dedication to protecting Montgomery's families make him the right leader for this moment. I am confident that Chief Collier will continue to strengthen Montgomery Fire/Rescue and advance our mission of building a safer, more resilient city."

Chief Collier's appointment is effective immediately.

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