Brian Guzzetta, DPA

Professional Glance

  • 29 years of progressive responsibility in the fire service with four different fire departments
  • Doctor of Public Administration – California Baptist University
  • 16 years as a professional educator at University and Community College level
  • 2022 Employee of the Year, City of Riverside Fire Department
  • Jon Kelso Leadership Award
  • Resident of the City of Riverside for past 20 years
  • Public Safety Employee of the Month

Leader’s Intent

“My intent is to lead a department that dutifully serves every member of our community with readiness and reliability.

  • The most valuable tool on an RFD engine is a highly skilled and highly motivated firefighter who is fully committed to our department’s mission. Our dedication, both individually and collectively, is demonstrated through our technical proficiency, physical and mental resilience, and exceptional responsiveness.

  • We prioritize continuous improvement, always seeking ways to enhance our service and capabilities for those we serve. Through rigorous training and foresight in our planning and operations, we proactively solve problems and prepare for future challenges and opportunities.

  • Empowered to lead by example, we uphold a culture of accountable leadership, where responsibility and accountability permeate all levels of our organization.

    Together, we will remain dedicated to upholding the longstanding traditions of this department through servant leadership and community protection.”

Professional Skills

  • I excel in fostering trust and credibility within teams and communities, serving as a role model in the agency and the profession.

  • I take pride in expanding the knowledge and skills of others, developing future leaders within the organization.

  • I possess exceptional analytical skills, enabling me to interpret data effectively and devise meaningful performance metrics and alternative service delivery models.

  • I have a track record of viewing resource challenges as avenues for innovation, seeking nontraditional strategies to improve service responsiveness, especially through data-supported methods.

  • I embrace diverse representation within the workplace, fostering an environment of inclusion and belonging.

  • I maintain a visible presence throughout the city, demonstrating accessibility and engagement with both internal stakeholders and the broader community.

  • I have a deep understanding of current industry trends, emergency concepts, and best practices, ensuring informed decision-making and strategic planning.

  • I have a track record of earning the trust and confidence of my subordinates, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment where team members feel valued and empowered.

  • I possess a strong understanding of both the theoretical principles and practical applications of public administration, allowing me to effectively navigate governmental structures and policies while implementing innovative solutions to complex challenges.