Leawood names new fire chief

The City of Leawood has named Andrew Grove as its next Fire Chief. The Leawood Governing Body approved Grove’s appointment during their Monday, Aug. 17 meeting. He will officially begin serving as Fire Chief on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026.

Grove joins Leawood following a 28-year career with the Overland Park Fire Department, where he has served in leadership roles throughout the organization. During his career, he has served as a firefighter, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and, most recently, Deputy Chief of Operations.

“Andrew brings extensive operational experience, proven leadership and a strong understanding of fire and emergency services in our region,” Mayor Marc Elkins said. “We are excited to welcome him to Leawood and look forward to the leadership he will provide as we continue building on the Fire Department’s strong tradition of service to our community.”

Grove earned his master’s degree from Webster University and holds the Chief Fire Officer designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence, a professional credential recognizing demonstrated expertise in fire and emergency services leadership.

Fire service is also a family tradition for Grove, who is a fifth-generation firefighter. He and his wife, Emily, have two children, Emma and Ames.

As Fire Chief, Grove will serve as a member of the City’s executive leadership team and provide strategic direction for all aspects of fire and emergency services, including department operations, personnel development, emergency preparedness, community risk reduction, and long-range planning.

Grove succeeds Chief Colin Fitzgerald, who retired July 24 after nearly 15 years with the City of Leawood and a 30-year career in public safety and firefighting.

Deputy Fire Chief Scott Gilmore has served as Interim Fire Chief since July 25 and will continue in that role until Grove begins Sept. 8.

“We are also extremely grateful to Scott Gilmore for stepping into the Interim Fire Chief role and providing steady leadership throughout this transition,” City Administrator Diane Stoddard said. “His experience and commitment to the department have helped ensure continuity of service while we conducted our search for Leawood’s next Fire Chief.”

The Leawood Fire Department is an internationally accredited, ISO Class 1 organization providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, fire prevention, emergency preparedness and community education services from three fire stations.