Fire-Dex, a provider of PPE for first responders, has announced a leadership succession as CEO Steve Allison looks toward retirement in early 2027.
Effective at the start of 2026, Lauren Burke DeVere, Fire-Dex’s current President, will move into the CEO position, sharing duties with Allison for 15 months as part of a phased transition.
In a parallel move, John Karban, current VP of Operations, will assume the title of President.
CEO, Fire-Dex, Steve Allison’s statement
Steve Allison, who has been with Fire-Dex since 2014 shared: “It’s been the honor of my career to lead this incredible team.
“We’ve built something really special here that’s driven by innovation, fueled by passion and always anchored by a deep respect for the fire service. Lauren and John are not only exceptional leaders but also deeply understand what makes Fire-Dex … Fire-Dex. I have full confidence they’ll take us to new heights while staying true to what sets us apart.
“This is an exciting time. We’re not slowing down. And I’m thrilled to support Lauren and John through this transition as they shape the future of Fire-Dex together.”
President, Fire-Dex, Lauren Burke DeVere’s statement
Lauren’s rise through Fire-Dex has been both dynamic and personal. Joining the company in 2019 as a Metro Sales Manager, she quickly made her mark by earning the promotion to President in 2021.
Since that time, she has guided the company through transformative growth, the complexities of COVID and major strides in innovation that include gear that caters to all body types—helping a new generation of female firefighters find their fit.
As the daughter of Fire-Dex chairman and owner Bill Burke, Lauren brings a unique mix of fresh vision and deep personal investment in the company’s legacy.
Lauren shared: “Fire-Dex is part of who I am. It’s humbling and exciting to step into the CEO role, especially following in Steve’s footsteps. We have an incredible team.
“I care for our people more than anything, and I’m laser-focused on keeping our culture strong, our people supported and our mission front and center—delivering the best protective gear to the world’s bravest.
“We’re growing again and I won’t stop until Fire-Dex is number one.”
VP of Operations, Fire-Dex, John Karban’s statement
Stepping into the President’s seat is John Karban who has been at the heart of the company’s efforts for over 20 years, advancing from Plant Manager to tackling a wide scope of operational, engineering and logistics challenges as VP of Operations.
John said of his new role: “I’ve worn a lot of hats here. From running machines to running meetings, and all the tasks in between. What’s never changed is the heart of this company: our people and our purpose.
“I’m excited to take on the role of President and work alongside Lauren and our team to keep building on what makes Fire-Dex special. Protecting our culture is job one; pushing the company forward is job two.”
Looking to the future
Fire-Dex has shared how its newly announced succession plan reflects its deep bench of homegrown leadership and ongoing dedication to its people-first, customer-centric ethos.
Lauren Burke DeVere announced as Fire-Dex CEO in new leader succession: Summary
Fire-Dex has announced that current President Lauren Burke DeVere will be moving into the position of CEO, beginning at the start of 2026. Current CEO Steve Allison has shared his plans for retirement in early 2027 and will work alongside Lauren throughout a 15 month integration period.
Replacing Lauren will be John Karban, current VP of Operations, will assume the title of President.
