James O. Rappuhn

Spearhead operational strategy development and enhance employee training effectivenessto ensure alignment with Wildfire private resource guidelines in company documentation. Provide decisive leadership and strategic guidance to operational teams to foster organizational success and team cohesion

• Increased firefighter safety and team cohesion by developing and implementing a comprehensive wildfire training program for ~150 personnel
• Achieved 100% compliance in a recent federal audit by procuring and installing electronic logging devices to meet Department of Transportation requirements
• ManageDepartmentofTransportationcompliancefor45fireenginesand90driverstoensureadherencetoregulatorystandards
• Conducted thorough inspections and implemented mitigation measures for properties valued at $100 million, effectively preparing them against the threat of wildfires and safeguarding their assets.

Oversaw all aspects of facilities, response equipment, policies, operating procedures, customer relationships, and personnel related to enterprise-wide risk management program. Collaborated closely with insurance carriers, homeowners, and HOAs to identify risks and develop mitigation strategies for minimizing disruptions. Led the development and implementation of a business plan for the Asset Protection division within a swift five-month timeframe. Fostered a culture of safety awareness and responsibility through comprehensive education and training initiatives. Provided exceptional customer service through various channels, including phone, email, and in-person interactions

• Orchestrated complex multi-state logistics for material transportation from manufacturing plants to diverse storage facilities, resulting in cost savings through operational adjustments
• Attained cost savings and maximized investment returns by aligning with insurance providers and optimizing coverage
• Designed, constructed, and led the initial operations of residential programs showcasing end-to-end methodologies, encompassing 75 homes with a median price of $3M each.

Managed $3M annual budget, overseeing field operations, training, staffing, contract negotiations and vendor resources. Conducted regular risk assessments and recommended corrective actions to mitigate potential hazards. Improved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the program. Proven ability to recruit, hire, train, and assess a team’s performance in a rapidly growing environment.

• Generated $1M in revenue within 13 months by demonstrating strong financial acumen and business development skills
• Enhanced operational efficiency and boosted productivity to drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Ensured the safety and effectiveness of fire response operations, overseeing a team of 16 wildland firefighters
• Negotiated $800,000 purchase of fire engine and fire equipment

• Led and managed entire multi-state wildfire division overseeing budgeting, operational expenditures (OPEX), contracts, staffing, wildfire deployments and an $8M budget
• Co-pioneered a first-of-its-kind Wildfire Protection Unit for a global insurance company, drivinginnovationandinfluencingnewunderwritingguidelinesbasedonfindingsfromwildfireinvestigations.Managedperformance and development of direct reports across several locations through formal and informal coaching, mentoring, and training
• Directed all wildfire prevention, mitigation, and fire response training and certification
• Implemented cost-saving measures, reducing operating expenses by over $150K annually from 2017 to 2022
• Led Department of Transportation and International Registration Plan (IRP) compliance for 25 fire engines and 50 drivers
• Deliveredcustomerservicefor6,400affluentandultra-affluentclientstoensurehighsatisfactionlevelsandstrongclientrelationships
• Documented $680M in saves (304 homes) during fire response operations from 2017 to 2022
• Developed comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the program to prioritize safety and compliance, with annual updates to ensure relevance and effectiveness.