About Niles R. Ford, Phd
Dr. Niles R. Ford, PhD, CFO, is an ordained minister, lifelong public servant, municipal leader, educator, and author whose life’s work is rooted in service, leadership, and impact. With more than three decades of experience across public safety, local government, and higher education, Dr. Ford is deeply committed to strengthening communities, developing leaders, and inspiring others through both his professional accomplishments and personal journey.
Born with a congenital limb difference—missing his left foot and with an underdeveloped lower left leg—Dr. Ford has faced and overcome significant challenges, including learning disabilities. Rather than allowing these obstacles to define him, he transformed them into sources of strength. His life stands as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the belief that adversity is not a barrier, but a pathway to purpose and greater achievement.
Raised within a rich five-generational legacy of New Orleans musicians, Dr. Ford began his career as a band director in Birmingham City Schools. While teaching, he also served as a 911 call taker and dispatcher for the Bessemer Police and Fire Department—an experience that ignited his passion for public service. He soon became a firefighter and paramedic with the Bessemer Fire Department, where his excellence and dedication earned him the prestigious “Employee of the Year” award from the Alabama Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities.
Dr. Ford’s leadership journey continued to expand as he rose through the ranks, later establishing and directing the first Emergency Medical Services program at Lawson State Community College. He went on to serve as Deputy Fire Chief in Fulton County, Georgia, before leading organizations as Fire Chief in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Baltimore, Maryland. He has also served as City Manager in Chamblee, Georgia, and Assistant City Manager in Hogansville, Georgia. Today, he serves as a Consultant with the Georgia Municipal Association, advising local governments on leadership, governance, and best practices in municipal management.
In addition to his leadership in government, Dr. Ford is a dedicated educator and mentor. He has served as an adjunct professor with Louisiana State University Online, Capella University’s doctoral program, and the University of Nebraska Omaha’s Master of Public Administration program. He has also been a guest lecturer at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, sharing his expertise with the next generation of leaders.
Dr. Ford holds an Associate of Science in Fire Science, a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration, a Master of Science in Management, and a PhD in Business Administration with a focus in Human Resource Management. A lifelong learner, he remains committed to growth, service, and empowering others to lead with excellence and integrity.
He is also a passionate author whose work reflects his commitment to leadership and purpose. His book, Leadership After God’s Own Heart: Learning from King David (2025), explores timeless leadership principles through both scripture and lived experience. In 2026, he released his inspiring children’s book, Niles, You Can Do Anything!, a heartfelt story designed to encourage young readers—especially those who may feel different or face challenges—to believe in themselves, embrace their uniqueness, and pursue their dreams with confidence.
Above all, Dr. Ford is a devoted husband to his wife, Carrie, and a proud father to their two accomplished daughters, Nilia and Carrigan. His life and work continue to reflect a simple yet powerful mission: to serve others, develop leaders, and inspire purpose-driven lives.