(Charlotte, NC) -- City Manager Curt Walton announced today that Deputy Fire Chief Jon Hannan has been named Fire Chief for the City of Charlotte effective December 30. Hannan will replace Luther Fincher, who will retire on December 29 after 42 years with the City of Charlotte. In addition to responsibilities for all fire and emergency services for the City, the fire chief also directs the City's Homeland Security operations.
A twenty-eight year department veteran, Hannan currently manages day-to-day operations and works with staff to plan, organize and direct departmental activities.
"Jon's appointment is a testament to the talent that lies within our organization because we didn't have to go far to find the best person for the job," says City Manager Curt Walton. "His rise through the ranks has allowed him to become familiar with the numerous and unique functions of the department, and his leadership and contributions over the years are key reasons the CFD is such a respected organization throughout the world."
Hannan joined the City of Charlotte in 1978 as a dispatcher and began his firefighter career in 1983. He was promoted to captain in 1987 and has served in several key roles in the departments. In 1996, he was promoted to battalion chief and later to deputy chief in 1999.
"City Manager Walton couldn't have made a better choice for Charlotte's next fire chief," Fincher said. "Jon has demonstrated he has the talent, skill and vision to lead this department of dedicated firefighters."
"I am humbled by this opportunity to serve as the City's Fire Chief," says Hannan. "And I am honored to have an opportunity to continue the department's tradition of protecting this community, and I look forward to developing new and innovative ways to ensure its safety in the future."
Hannan earned an associate's degree in Fire Protection Technology from Central Piedmont Community College and a bachelor's degree in Fire Safety Engineering from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He is also a graduate of the Professional Executive Leadership Academy of the University Of North Carolina School Of Government and holds a Chief Fire Officer Designation from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.
Hannan resides in Charlotte with wife, Miriam and two children.
