About The Author

P. Lamont Ewell began his public sector career as a Firefighter in Compton, California.  He later joined the Prince George’s County, Maryland Fire Department as a Chief Officer and went on to become Fire Chief of Oakland, California.  During 1995-6, he served as President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.  He left the fire service to become a City Manager.  During this phase of his career he served as a deputy city manager, assistant city manager and ultimately was appointed to the top seat, successfully managing three different cities. They included Durham, North Carolina, San Diego, California and Santa Monica, California.  At each, he recruited and hired dynamic, forward thinking Police and Fire Chiefs who understood the importance of being leaders.

After 34 years of public service, he formally retired.  He occasionally assists cities faced with financial challenges, but his greater passion is assisting Police and Fire Chief candidates prepare for their interviews.  He possesses a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration and an Executive Masters Degree in General Administration.  He lives on a horse ranch in southern California with his wife, daughter, son-in-law and two grandsons.  The family is currently establishing a zinfandel grape vineyard.