Lori Hamer
Fire Chief
London Fire Department
London Fire Department
Chief Lori Hamer made history in July 2018 when she was appointed Fire Chief for the City of London, becoming the first woman to hold this role. With 27 years of experience in the fire service, she is widely respected for her visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to public safety, and deep dedication to community building.
Her journey began in 1998 as a Communications Operator for the City of Kitchener. Driven by a passion for service and growth, she rose through the ranks and, in 2016, joined the London Fire Department as Deputy Chief of Communications, Training, and Special Projects. In this role, she championed innovation, professional development, and operational excellence.
Chief Hamer’s academic path reflects her belief in lifelong learning. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Family & Social Relations from the University of Guelph, a diploma and advanced diploma in Public Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), and an mBA in Executive Leadership from Queen’s University.
Beyond her local leadership, Chief Hamer plays an influential role provincially. She serves on the NFPA 1061 Accreditation Committee, contributes to Fanshawe College’s Public Safety Leadership and Telecommunications programs, is an active member of Ontario’s Urban Fire Chiefs group and recently was awarded the King Charles Coronation medal by the Solicitor General, the Honourable Michael Kerzner.
Known for her authenticity and collaborative spirit, Chief Hamer is a passionate advocate for mentorship and inclusion. She inspires others to seize opportunity, support one another, and lead with purpose.
Her guiding belief:
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” — Henry David Thoreau
Her journey began in 1998 as a Communications Operator for the City of Kitchener. Driven by a passion for service and growth, she rose through the ranks and, in 2016, joined the London Fire Department as Deputy Chief of Communications, Training, and Special Projects. In this role, she championed innovation, professional development, and operational excellence.
Chief Hamer’s academic path reflects her belief in lifelong learning. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Family & Social Relations from the University of Guelph, a diploma and advanced diploma in Public Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), and an mBA in Executive Leadership from Queen’s University.
Beyond her local leadership, Chief Hamer plays an influential role provincially. She serves on the NFPA 1061 Accreditation Committee, contributes to Fanshawe College’s Public Safety Leadership and Telecommunications programs, is an active member of Ontario’s Urban Fire Chiefs group and recently was awarded the King Charles Coronation medal by the Solicitor General, the Honourable Michael Kerzner.
Known for her authenticity and collaborative spirit, Chief Hamer is a passionate advocate for mentorship and inclusion. She inspires others to seize opportunity, support one another, and lead with purpose.
Her guiding belief:
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” — Henry David Thoreau
