City, News

Walsh names new commissioner and chief for Boston Fire Department

Boston Fire Department Deputy Chief Joseph E. Finn, a member of the department for almost 30 years, will soon assume the role of both Commissioner and Chief of BFD, Boston Mayor Martin Walsh announced Monday at the fire department headquarters.

Finn, a 53-year-old Quincy resident, will take over for current Interim Commissioner and Chief John Hasson, a Monday release stated. A member of BFD since October 1984, Finn climbed the ranks, becoming Deputy Chief of Personnel in 2001 and Division Commander in 2005.

“Interim Commissioner/Chief Hasson has shown exceptional leadership and I’m grateful for his service as he passes the torch to Chief Finn,” Walsh stated in Monday’s release. “Chief Finn’s experience and leadership style, along with his commitment to diversity and fairness, will help move our Fire Department into an even more successful era of service to the people of Boston.”

Walsh began a nationwide search for BFD’s new Commissioner and Chief in March, hiring a consulting firm to begin compiling the nation’s most qualified candidates before ultimately selecting Finn for the role.

In his years at BFD, Finn has gained experience in ground operations, HAZMAT operations and high-profile events, the release stated. He initiated several training programs and investigations and has worked alongside Walsh on multiple planning and development committees.

“Deputy Chief Finn possesses a broad and impressive understanding of the Boston Fire Department, including personnel, public safety, and administration,” Walsh stated.

As a BFD firefighter, Finn significantly increased the number of emergency medical technicians at BFD by establishing an EMT training program, and he worked to integrate fire services and emergency medical services.

The city will formally swear Finn in as the BFP commissioner in the coming weeks.

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