Eastern Director

Chief Hayes serves the Town of Leland as their Fire Chief and has worked in emergency services for over 35 years, beginning his career as a volunteer at Shallotte Point VFD in 1989. Over the last 35 years, Chief Hayes has served in many ranks and positions within the emergency services.

He has obtained many state and national certifications and a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management from Western Carolina University. Chief Hayes is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer and Fire Marshal through the Center for Public Safety Excellence and is presently active in the International Association of Fire Chiefs, North Carolina State Firefighters Association, North Carolina Society of Fire Service Instructors, North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Hayes also serves as the 1^st Vice President of the Eastern Carolina Firefighters Association and Vice President of the Brunswick County Chiefs Association.

Chief Hayes lives on his family farm in Columbus County with his wife, Traci. They have two sons, who are both married and live in the area, and four grandchildren.