Newsletter

Celebrating Five Years of Service at the California JPIA: Tony Leite, Senior Risk Manager

The California JPIA is celebrating the five-year anniversary of Senior Risk Manager Tony Leite, whose unique blend of public safety experience and risk management expertise has made him an invaluable partner to members across East Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and the Eastern Sierra region.

“Over the past five years, Tony has become an integral part of our risk management team,” said Risk Services Director Alex Mellor, who served as Leite’s staff mentor when he joined in 2020. “His ability to connect with members through his public safety background, combined with his dedication to developing practical solutions, has made him a trusted advisor throughout his region. Tony’s commitment to continuous learning and member service exemplifies what makes the Authority successful.”

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Leite’s path to the California JPIA has been shaped by over two decades of commitment to safety, service, and effective risk management. He began as a California state firefighter and earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, San Bernardino. His passion for teaching led to a California State Teaching Credential and ongoing service as a Fire Technology instructor for the Antelope Valley Union High School District for 23 years.

His career evolved through increasingly complex roles, including regional manager of environmental health and safety for a global financial institution, senior safety engineer at Lockheed Martin Aerospace, and risk manager with Poms & Sedgwick Risk Services. As a consultant with Poms & Sedgwick, Leite had previous exposure to the Authority, which piqued his interest in municipal risk management.

“My career in insurance and risk management evolved naturally from a lifelong commitment to public safety,” he said. “As a firefighter and first responder, I saw firsthand how risk, anticipated or unforeseen, affects communities.”

Since joining the California JPIA, Leite has served as a Senior Risk Manager, with his role expanding significantly over five years. Initially focused on evaluating exposures, supporting liability and workers’ compensation initiatives, and strengthening regulatory compliance, his responsibilities have grown to include disaster preparedness and mitigation strategy, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic response and emergency planning needs.

“My background as a firefighter brings a real-world perspective to this work,” said Leite. “That frontline experience allows me to keep risk solutions grounded and actionable.”

Serving members across his diverse region is especially fulfilling for Leite because of the variety of risks, operational needs, and community values. “These areas include high-profile tourism destinations, rural communities, and fast-growing municipalities, each with distinct exposures requiring tailored, proactive approaches,” he said. “Having lived in or vacationed in many of these regions, I bring a personal connection and deep understanding of their unique character and needs.”

Leite’s approach to risk management is rooted in relationships, trust, and real-world experience. “I don’t just offer recommendations, I partner with members to implement practical, sustainable solutions that make a difference,” he said. “What sets me apart is the hands-on nature of my work. I enjoy engaging with all levels of staff, from city leadership to frontline workers, and ensuring everyone feels supported and heard.”

Among his proudest accomplishments, Leite earned the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation, reflecting deep technical expertise and field experience. At the Authority, he led the wildfire risk assessments project, supporting members in managing growing wildfire threats, and coordinated presentations at the Risk Management Academy while organizing five years of Risk Management Educational Forums.

“Most importantly, I value the enduring relationships I’ve built with member agency staff,” said Leite. “These connections form the backbone of our work and represent the trust and shared purpose that make risk management effective.”

Over his five-year tenure, Leite has witnessed significant evolution at the Authority. “The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic demanded flexibility, innovation, and rapid adaptation, qualities the Authority embraced head-on,” he said. “Today, the Authority’s culture is more collaborative, responsive, and forward-looking than ever. There’s a greater emphasis on continuous improvement, member service, and strategic innovation.”

One of the most gratifying aspects of Leite’s work is seeing member agencies recognized for their excellence. “Several agencies I support have earned risk management awards, reflecting their dedication to proactive safety and prevention,” he said. “Equally meaningful is seeing colleagues and friends nominated for the Capstone Award. These honors validate the commitment and leadership I’ve had the privilege to support firsthand.”

“Whether in the field, the classroom, or alongside member leadership and staff, I see risk management as a way to strengthen communities,” said Leite. “At the California JPIA, I’ve found a place where experience, passion, and purpose intersect, and I’m proud to contribute to that mission every day.”

Congratulations, Tony, on your 5^th anniversary!

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