"Chief Key's leadership abilities and his depth of experience make him the right person for this job," Mayor Haslam stated. "I trust in his commitment to the citizens of Knoxville and the men and women of the Fire Department."

Key, 58, joined the Fire Department in 1975, and rose through the ranks, holding the positions of senior firefighter, master firefighter and fire officer before being named an assistant chief in 1998. In that position, he plans, organizes and commands firefighting operations and emergencies in a district, and has administrative and scheduling duties. Key also served as a hazardous materials team leader for eight years and served on the department's accreditation committee.

"I am honored to be able to serve the Fire Department that I have been part of for 30 years," Key said. "I pledge to the citizens of Knoxville and the men and women who serve within the department to dedicate myself to making them proud that I am their chief."

Key is a Fulton High School graduate and served in the U.S. Army. He and his wife, June, have three grown children.

The Knoxville Fire Department employs more than 300 firefighters who provide fire protection, first-response and other services to a 100-square mile area. The department's annual budget for next year is $28.2 million.