The Huddersfield fire officer has taken over as president of the Chief Fire Officers' Association and has become one of the most influential figures in the fire service.
West Yorkshire's Chief Fire Officer, who has just celebrated 32 years on the front line, will serve a 15-month term.
As association president he will also lead the National Practitioners' Forum, which gives professional advice and support to top Government ministers.
In 2004, Mr Toase was made a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours.
He lives in South Crosland with his wife, Lorraine, and her son, Greig. He also has a son, James, and a daughter, Anna. He is a keen Manchester United fan.
Mr Toase said: "It's a great personal honour to lead my professional association, but it also reflects well on everyone in the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service."
He said his priorities would include the promotion of sprinklers in all new and refurbished schools.
