Matt Sullivan was named Chapel Hill’s new Fire Chief after serving as the interim chief since May of 2015.

Town manager Roger Stancil sent an email to the town council announcing Sullivan’s promotion, saying he has “ably demonstrated his skills and qualifications for this position of leadership.”

“I want to send a strong message that Matt has my full confidence as the leader of our Fire Department,” Stancil wrote. “He meets my leadership interests in a Chief.”

Stancil also wrote that Sullivan has become a key member of the Town’s leadership team, citing his understanding of fire service, experience with Town operations and understanding of their Vision and Values, as important qualities Sullivan will bring to the position.

During his tenure, Chief Sullivan will be expected to complete a departmental strategic planning process for the future, establish an effective organizational structure, as well as establish a facilities improvement plan.

Stancil wrote that other responsibilities will include developing collaborative, innovative leadership for the future, retain the current staff and attract new talent.

“As we move forward with our strategic planning effort for the future and with addressing current operational and staffing decisions, he needs your support. I need for you to see him as your leader without reservation,” Stancil wrote.

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