As reported by The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), Abena Bonso-Bruce will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) in mid-January 2025.
In this capacity, she will assist NVFC CEO Sarah Lee in overseeing internal operations, including budget development, grants oversight, and organizational planning.
Lee remarked on the appointment: “The NVFC is excited to welcome Abena Bonso-Bruce in the key role of chief operating officer.
“She brings a wealth of experience in association management and a passion for the volunteer fire service and will be an asset in furthering the NVFC’s initiatives and supporting our nation’s emergency responders.”
Bonso-Bruce is an accomplished leader with significant experience in association management.
She served for seven years with the International Association of Fire Chiefs, including four years as assistant director for program management.
In this role, she oversaw seven federal grants, developed strategic plans, and led training courses.
Her work expanded recruitment and retention efforts, which are critical to supporting the volunteer fire service.
Before joining the NVFC, Bonso-Bruce was the executive director for The Transportation Alliance, a nonprofit trade association, and chief people officer for Miller Wenhold Association Management.
She also volunteers actively in the fire service sector.
She currently serves as a recruitment and retention instructor with Mission CIT LLC and volunteers with Loudoun County Fire and Rescue in Virginia.
Additionally, she is the chair of the scholarship program for the Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.
Bonso-Bruce holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration.
Her educational and professional background equips her to excel in her new role.
According to the NVFC, her appointment is expected to bolster the organization’s efforts in supporting volunteer firefighters and emergency responders across the country.
She will officially begins her tenure this month.
Abena Bonso-Bruce has been appointed as the chief operating officer of the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC).
She will support NVFC CEO Sarah Lee in internal operations, including grant management and organizational planning.
Bonso-Bruce brings extensive experience, having worked with the International Association of Fire Chiefs and The Transportation Alliance.
She also holds advanced business degrees and actively contributes to volunteer fire service initiatives in Virginia.
Her appointment begins in mid-January 2025.
