By Katie Callahan (Courtesy photo)

Alexandria’s newly appointed fire chief, Robert C. Dubé, says he is ready to go as he prepares to take the department’s reins June 9.

“I’m excited for the opportunity and I’m ready to get to work,” Dubé said. “I’m looking forward to working with the community and making the fire department an integral part of all the city’s activities.”

Dubé serves as the county administrator for Louisa County, Va. He succeeds interim Chief Andrew Snead, who took the position after Adam Thiel resigned to work for Gov. Terry McAuliffe as deputy secretary of Veteran Affairs and Homeland Security.

Dubé was selected from five finalists after about $24,000 was spent on a nationwide search led by Waters Consulting Group. His resume includes previous stints as a fire chief in Fairfax County and Clearwater, Fla.

“Chief Dubé brings a wealth of expertise to the city,” said City Manager Rashad Young in a statement. “His broad experience in organizations of all sizes, and his work as a firefighter, fire chief, administrator and emergency manager will help us continue the proud tradition of our exceptional fire department.”

Dubé and his wife plan to move to the city prior to his start date. Prioritizing the department’s challenges will be his first order of business.

“From working in Fairfax, I know response very well,” Dubé said. “My priority to the citizens is to provide a service. When you have an emergency, we respond in a confident and professional manner.”

Dubé holds a master’s degree in executive fire service leadership and a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Grand Canyon University. He graduated from the National Fire Academy as an executive fire officer.

The governor’s office and the International Association of Fire Chiefs have honored Dubé for his work. He also has received local and international search and rescue awards, including for his response to the September 11, 2001 attack on the Pentagon.