Jim Pauley has announced that he will retire as President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on 31 July 2026. He informed the NFPA Board of Directors of his decision more than a year ago, allowing time to prepare for the transition.
The board has appointed the executive search firm Spencer Stuart to oversee recruitment, with the formal process scheduled to begin in November 2025. Further details will be released once the search is underway. Inquiries regarding the appointment will be directed to Spencer Stuart when the process begins, and NFPA has said a formal statement will be published at that stage.
Pauley noted that NFPA has had only seven presidents in its 130-year history and described it as an honour to have served as one of them. He has led the organisation since 2014, guiding its work in developing standards and guidance for fire protection, life safety and electrical safety.
He said he will work closely with the board to ensure a smooth transition and will remain fully engaged in NFPA’s activities until his retirement. He emphasised that the organisation’s mission of protecting people and property will remain its priority throughout the transition period, with NFPA continuing to operate at full speed.
The leadership change is significant for fire and safety professionals worldwide, as NFPA codes and standards are widely recognised and influence global practice. A new president could shape how the association prioritises future updates to its standards and collaborates with international fire safety bodies. For now, Pauley’s announcement provides clarity on the timeline, with continuity assured until mid-2026.Jim Pauley has announced that he will retire as President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on 31 July 2026. He informed the NFPA Board of Directors of his decision more than a year ago, allowing time to prepare for the transition.
The board has appointed the executive search firm Spencer Stuart to oversee recruitment, with the formal process scheduled to begin in November 2025. Further details will be released once the search is underway. Inquiries regarding the appointment will be directed to Spencer Stuart when the process begins, and NFPA has said a formal statement will be published at that stage.
Pauley noted that NFPA has had only seven presidents in its 130-year history and described it as an honour to have served as one of them. He has led the organisation since 2014, guiding its work in developing standards and guidance for fire protection, life safety and electrical safety.
He said he will work closely with the board to ensure a smooth transition and will remain fully engaged in NFPA’s activities until his retirement. He emphasised that the organisation’s mission of protecting people and property will remain its priority throughout the transition period, with NFPA continuing to operate at full speed.
The leadership change is significant for fire and safety professionals worldwide, as NFPA codes and standards are widely recognised and influence global practice. A new president could shape how the association prioritises future updates to its standards and collaborates with international fire safety bodies. For now, Pauley’s announcement provides clarity on the timeline, with continuity assured until mid-2026.
