The City of Winter Haven is pleased to announce the hiring of Drew Neubrand as the new Fire Chief, succeeding Chief Joseph “Sonny” Emery, who will retire at the end of January 2025 following a distinguished 26-year career serving the City of Winter Haven.

After conducting a nationwide search, the City engaged community members, peer directors, and fire personnel to provide valuable input during an extensive interview and selection process. City Manager T. Michael Stavres highlighted his confidence in the decision, stating:

"Drew brings the experience, leadership, and community connection that make him a perfect fit for the Winter Haven Fire Department. I’m excited to welcome him to the team and confident that his passion for service and ability to inspire others will help our Fire Department continue its tradition of excellence."

Drew Neubrand currently serves as Fire Chief for the City of Haines City, where he has worked for just over four years, first as a Battalion Chief before rising to his current role. Before that, Drew spent 13 years with the Reedy Creek Fire Department, progressing to the rank of Captain and Assistant Chief of Training. His career also includes roles with the Winter Springs Fire Department and Hillsborough County Fire.

A certified firefighter and paramedic, Drew holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Administration from St. Petersburg College and has served as an adjunct professor at Valencia College.

As a resident of Winter Haven for the past eight years, Drew has been an active member of the community alongside his family. Looking ahead to his new role, Drew remarked:

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with the outstanding men and women of the Winter Haven Fire Department and further establish it as the premier fire department in the State."

While Drew’s official start date is still being finalized, the City anticipates he will begin in January 2025.

Chief Emery’s legacy and leadership will be celebrated as his retirement approaches, and the City is confident that Drew Neubrand will build on that foundation with his dedication, expertise, and vision for the future of fire service in Winter Haven.