CHICAGO – Mayor Brandon Johnson announced today that Jose Tirado, Executive Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), will be transitioning out of his position. With nearly three years of dedicated service at OEMC, first as First Deputy and later as Executive Director, Tirado brought a wealth of experience from his distinguished three-decade career in law enforcement, including his tenure as Chief of Counterterrorism with the Chicago Police Department. His unwavering commitment to public safety and law enforcement has been a hallmark of his career, both before and during his time at OEMC.  

"On behalf of our city, I want to thank Jose Tirado for his years of dedicated service and commitment to community safety," said Mayor Johnson. "During his tenure, thanks to his leadership and our collaborative approaches, our city began to see reductions in crime across all categories and we successfully hosted the 2024 Democratic National Convention and several other large-scale events and conventions. I wish him all the best in this next chapter as we look forward to building upon the progress we have made together."   

Throughout his distinguished career, Jose Tirado has been a steadfast advocate for the safety and well-being of Chicago’s residents. As Executive Director of OEMC, he played a critical role in advancing the department’s mission to coordinate public safety efforts, ensuring the security of all who call Chicago home or visit this vibrant city. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration across agencies to protect and serve the community.  

“I want to thank Mayor Johnson and his administration, the staff at OEMC, the Chicago Police Department and the Chicago Fire Department for their commitment to our residents and the opportunity to serve alongside them during this summer’s Democratic Convention among many other events and missions,” said Jose Tirado, OEMC, Executive Director. “I especially want to thank the 911 and 311 operators at OEMC, who are the first line of response to every public safety incident called into the City of Chicago. The importance of the work that they do cannot be highlighted enough.”  

Jose Tirado's exemplary career in public safety included rising through the ranks of the Chicago Police Department to serve as Chief of Counterterrorism and Criminal Network Group. At OEMC, he leveraged his extensive law enforcement experience to enhance the City’s 9-1-1 Operations Center, 3-1-1 City Services, Emergency Management, and Traffic Management Authority, bringing a strategic and professional perspective to these critical functions.  

During his tenure at OEMC, Tirado led pivotal coordination efforts with County and State partners, securing federal assistance for residents impacted by historic flooding. He successfully spearheaded planning for high-profile events such as the inaugural Chicago NASCAR Street Race, the Chicago Marathon, Sueños, Lollapalooza, and the 2024 Chicago Democratic National Convention. Additionally, he played a key role in managing the City’s historic response to Chicago’s New Arrival mission, ensuring effective public safety measures throughout his leadership.   

To ensure a seamless transition, Francisco Velez, Deputy District Chief and Special Events Liaison, will serve as Interim Executive Director of OEMC. Velez brings extensive experience in emergency management and public safety coordination, having played a key role in planning and executing large-scale events and emergency response efforts. His leadership will provide continuity as the City continues its mission to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness.  

Tirado’s legacy reflects an unwavering commitment to public safety, collaboration, and service to the people of Chicago. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the City’s emergency management infrastructure, and his leadership will serve as a foundation for the department’s continued success.  

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