SFPE Announces Chris Jelenewicz, PE, FSFPE, as Chief Executive Officer

January 10, 2024

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), a world-leading professional society for fire protection and fire safety engineering, announces Chris Jelenewicz, PE, FSFPE, as CEO.

Jelenewicz joined the staff of SFPE in 2004 and succeeded Nicole Boston, CAE, who served as SFPE’s CEO from October 2013 through April 2023. Jelenewicz has most recently served as the Society’s chief engineer and interim CEO, holds degrees in fire protection engineering and management from the University of Maryland, and is a licensed professional engineer in fire protection engineering. A fellow of SFPE, Jelenewicz is a well-respected and trusted industry leader and will be responsible for the Society’s staff and programs, including the 15th SFPE Fire Safety Conference & Expo on Performance-Based Design in Copenhagen, the SFPE Annual Conference & Expo, and the sixth edition of the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering due out later this year.

“The SFPE Board of Directors continues their support, affirming that Chris is the right person to guide the Society. In line with our Mission — to define, develop, & advance the use of engineering best practices, expand the scientific knowledge base; & educate the global fire safety community to reduce fire risk — Chris will concentrate on what matters most and effectively serve the needs of our expanding 5,300-plus member community,” stated Bob Libby, PE, FSFPE, president, Society of Fire Protection Engineers. “Under Chris's leadership, SFPE is embracing a new strategic plan, navigating a thoughtful staff restructuring, and will ensure we not only meet the needs of our members but also strengthen the very foundation of SFPE for a sustainable and impactful future.”