Thomas “Tom” VonEssen is a nationally respected leader in public safety, emergency management, and crisis response, bringing decades of executive experience across municipal, federal, and private-sector organizations. He served as the 30th Fire Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) from 1996-2001, leading the department through significant operational modernization and overseeing FDNY’s response to the September 11th 2001 terrorist attacks. His tenure is widely recognized for decisive leadership during one of the most challenging periods in U.S. public safety history. Following his service as Fire Commissioner, VonEssen advised organizations on risk management, safety strategy, emergency preparedness, and organizational leadership, and held senior roles in public- and private-sector consulting. He later served as FEMA Regional Administrator for Region II, overseeing disaster response and recovery efforts across New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Earlier in his career, VonEssen spent almost 16 years as a frontline firefighter with the FDNY and served as President of the Uniformed Firefighters Association, representing New York City firefighters. At Haugland Group, Tom VonEssen serves as an advisor and board member, providing strategic guidance on safety leadership, emergency response planning, crisis management, and operational resilience across complex infrastructure and utility environments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from St. Francis College and was awarded an Honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his contributions to public service.
