via O2X
As the head of the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department since 2019, Fire Chief Joanne R. Rund has driven her tenure a with a steadfast commitment to health, safety, inclusiveness, and teamwork. With more than three decades of experience in the fire service, she roots her leadership style in service-oriented principles and a genuine concern for the well-being of her personnel.
Having spent 32 years with the Howard County (MD) Department of Fire and Rescue Services before assuming her current role, Rund’s leadership journey began under the mentorship of a captain who instilled in her the values of succession planning and servant leadership. This early guidance laid the groundwork for Rund’s approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a culture of support and mentorship within the organization.
Rund’s leadership philosophy is characterized by empathy, humility, and a dedication to serving others. She believes in empowering her team members by providing them with the necessary tools and resources for success while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. Rund recognizes that effective leadership requires adaptability and situational awareness, drawing inspiration from the situational leadership principles proposed by Ken Blanchard.
Accountability
Leadership demands holding oneself and others accountable for actions and outcomes. Chief Rund underscores the necessity of setting clear expectations and ensuring team members understand their responsibilities. Through mentorship and education, she fosters a culture where individuals take ownership of their work and learn from mistakes. By leading by example, she reinforces the importance of accountability in achieving the department’s mission.
Respect
Respect is fundamental to effective leadership. Chief Rund recognizes that earning respect requires respecting others first. She emphasizes genuine engagement with team members, actively listening to their perspectives, and valuing their contributions. By demonstrating empathy and understanding, she builds trust and creates an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and respected.
Responsibility
Leadership entails taking responsibility for the well-being and success of the team. Chief Rund emphasizes the importance of building trust through competence and integrity. She continuously seeks opportunities for self-improvement and encourages her team members to do the same. Through education, mentorship, and personal growth, she cultivates a continuous learning and development culture, ensuring everyone can effectively fulfill their responsibilities.
Servant Leadership
Servant leadership is about prioritizing the needs of others and empowering them to succeed. Chief Rund embraces this model by positioning herself at the bottom of the hierarchy, serving her team members, and providing them with the support and resources they need to thrive. By fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual respect, she creates a cohesive team capable of achieving collective goals. Through her commitment to servant leadership, she inspires trust, loyalty, and dedication among her team members.
Under Rund’s guidance, the Baltimore County Fire Department has prioritized the health and safety of its personnel, implementing policies and procedures aimed at minimizing risks and promoting a culture of well-being. Additionally, Rund has worked tirelessly to cultivate a sense of inclusiveness and teamwork within the department, recognizing that diversity and collaboration are essential for success in challenging and dynamic environments. Overall, Joanne R. Rund’s leadership approach is characterized by a steadfast commitment to service, a dedication to the well-being of her personnel, and a belief in the power of inclusiveness and teamwork. Through her experiences and insights, she offers invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders across diverse domains. By prioritizing her team members’ health, safety, and empowerment, Rund embodies the essence of effective leadership—inspiring others to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose
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