Philip Hyman appointed as new fire chief.Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke has named Philip Hyman to serve as the city's next fire chief.
Hyman replaces Chris Adams, who retired at the end of September, serving the Chattanooga Fire Department's chief since 2015.
Berke's appointee, subject to Chattanooga City Council approval, brings 22 years of experience to the position. He has served as the department's training chief since 2013.
"It's clear Phil is well respected by the men and women of the Chattanooga Fire Department," Berke said at a news conference this afternoon. "His decades of service combined with his knowledge of every level of the department will help lead our firefighters to do their best work in keeping Chattanooga safe and improving the lives of everyone in our community."
Berke cited Hyman's well-rounded tenure in the fire department as a key strength.
"He's been on the trucks, he's been in every different part of this department," Berke said. "He knows it incredibly well. He understands the nature of what our firefighters go though."
Hyman described his the opportunity to lead the Chattanooga Fire Department as a "an exciting yet challenging task," crediting the skills and abilities of the city's firefighters and a means to continue the department's "excellent service."
"I particularly would like to recognize with deep respect, the other finalists for this position - my fellow firefighters, who are extremely talented and knowledgeable," Hyman said, adding he considered the fire department as his extended family.
Hyman is one of 62 candidates from across the United States who applied for the fire chief position. Seven other members of the Chattanooga Fire Department, including Administrative Deputy Chief Seth Adams and battalion chiefs Carlos Hampton and Evan Willmore. Capts. William Andrews, David Brooks, Donielle Dean and Shawn Reese, also applied.
Contact staff writer Paul Leach at 423-757-6481or pleach@timesfreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @pleach_tfp.