Lauren Burke DeVere [left] will become CEO, John Karban [right] will be named President

CEO succession at Fire-Dex to begin in 2026

Fire-Dex has confirmed that a leadership transition will begin in 2026, with President Lauren Burke DeVere set to take over as Chief Executive Officer.

According to Fire-Dex, Burke DeVere will begin sharing CEO responsibilities with current Chief Executive Steve Allison from the start of 2026, ahead of his planned retirement in early 2027.

Fire-Dex added that John Karban, currently Vice President of Operations, will be promoted to President as part of the same succession plan.

Burke DeVere to become CEO following phased transition

The manufacturer stated that the transition will take place over 15 months, during which time Burke DeVere and Allison will jointly manage executive responsibilities.

Steve Allison, who joined Fire-Dex in 2014 and has served as CEO since, said: “It’s been the honour of my career to lead this incredible team.

“It’s humbling and exciting to step into the CEO role, especially following in Steve’s footsteps,” said Lauren Burke DeVere.

She added: “I care for our people more than anything, and I’m laser-focused on keeping our culture strong, our people supported and our mission front and centre.”

Burke DeVere joined Fire-Dex in 2019 and became President in 2021. The company said her promotion follows a period of sustained growth and strategic change.

Karban to take on President role after two decades at the company

Fire-Dex confirmed that John Karban will succeed Burke DeVere as President after more than 20 years with the business.

The company said Karban began his career with Fire-Dex as a Plant Manager and later led operational, logistics and engineering initiatives.

John Karban said: “I’ve worn a lot of hats here.

“What’s never changed is the heart of this company: our people and our purpose.

Karban added: “I’m excited to take on the role of President and work alongside Lauren and our team to keep building on what makes Fire-Dex special.”

Company outlines long-term focus on internal leadership and product development

Fire-Dex stated that the succession plan reflects its focus on internal leadership development and business continuity.

The company noted that more than 500 associates and multiple facilities are involved in its operations, with no plans to slow growth.

Current CEO Steve Allison said: “We’re not slowing down.

“I’m thrilled to support Lauren and John through this transition as they shape the future of Fire-Dex together.”

Fire-Dex added that its work continues on products and services including AeroFlex turnouts, firefighter sizing AI, and Gear Wash maintenance.

Fire-Dex confirms 2026 leadership handover: Summary

Fire-Dex has announced a leadership transition set to begin in January 2026.

Current President Lauren Burke DeVere will become CEO in a phased handover with current CEO Steve Allison.

Steve Allison will retire in early 2027.

Vice President of Operations John Karban will become President in 2026.

Burke DeVere has been with Fire-Dex since 2019 and became President in 2021.

Karban has worked at Fire-Dex for over 20 years in operations and logistics.

The company said the changes reflect its people-first and internal succession approach.

More than 500 staff work across multiple Fire-Dex facilities in the United States.

The manufacturer said its development of protective gear and services will continue during the transition.

Fire-Dex confirmed it will continue expanding manufacturing and technology capabilities.