The Municipality of Lambton Shores has appointed Sean Smith as the new fire chief for Lambton Shores Fire and Emergency Services following a recent leadership transition within the department.
The appointment comes as former Fire Chief James Marshall leaves the role to pursue a new professional opportunity.
Smith brings more than a decade of experience with the department, having joined in 2010 as an on-call firefighter with the Forest Station. He was promoted to captain in 2015 and joined the Municipality of Lambton Shores in a full-time capacity in 2021 as manager of by-law enforcement. In 2023, he assumed the role of deputy fire chief of training.
During his time as deputy chief of training, Smith oversaw firefighter development and operational readiness initiatives. The municipality said firefighters under his leadership successfully completed all provincially mandated training and certification requirements within required timelines.
As fire chief, Smith will oversee the continued delivery of fire and emergency services throughout the community.
“Sean has demonstrated strong leadership throughout his time with the fire department and brings valuable operational experience to this role,” said Doug Cook. “Council and I are confident that he will provide steady leadership for the department and continue building on the strong foundation currently in place as we grow as a municipality.”
Smith officially assumed the role on May 23, 2026.
“I’m honoured to step into the role of Fire Chief and continue serving my community with the dedicated members of Lambton Shores Fire and Emergency Services,” Smith said. “It has been a privilege to work under Chief Marshall’s leadership and contribute to the progress our department has made in recent years and to witness firsthand the dedication our firefighters bring to serving this community.”
“I am excited to build on that progress and about the future of Lambton Shores Fire and Emergency Services,” he added. “I look forward to working collaboratively with our members, municipal staff, council, and the community to ensure we continue delivering professional, reliable and effective emergency services for years to come.”
The municipality also recognized Marshall for his leadership and contributions during his tenure as fire chief, highlighting his work on community risk reduction initiatives and long-term capital planning efforts.
“We are grateful for James’ dedication and leadership during his time with the Municipality,” Mayor Cook said. “His contributions have been transformative within the fire service and have established a strong foundation for continued success in the years ahead. On behalf of council and the community, we thank him and wish him continued success in this next opportunity.”
