CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has named David Puckett as its new Chief of the Albemarle County Fire Rescue Department, effective Thursday.

“I look forward to continuing to serve Albemarle County by leading this department as we strengthen our department’s foundation and ensure that Albemarle County Fire Rescue remains a trusted, high-performing organization dedicated to the safety and well-being of the people of Albemarle County,” Puckett said in a statement released by the county.

Puckett brings more than 27 years of service with Albemarle County Fire Rescue, including the last 13 as Deputy Chief of Operations. His career includes leadership roles as Captain and Battalion Chief, including serving as one of the department’s first Battalion Chiefs. Hired in 1998, Puckett was one of ACFR’s first nine career firefighters.

He succeeds Dan Eggleston, who retired at the end of October.

The county engaged a recruitment firm to support the outreach and engagement of key stakeholders and staff to determine the key attributes, experiences, and leadership qualities necessary for the next Fire Rescue Chief. Survey results emphasized the importance of experience leading a combination career and volunteer department, building strong relationships across the region, and a commitment to the continuity of initiatives already underway. Based on this feedback, the firm strongly recommended the selection of an internal candidate.

“Early in the recruitment process, it became clear that the next Chief must be a proven leader with deep operational knowledge and established trust within the department and throughout the community,” County Executive Jeff Richardson said in a statement. “David’s long-standing relationships with both career and volunteer personnel, combined with his understanding of the combination system and our county’s unique qualities and needs, position him well to lead Albemarle County Fire Rescue into its next chapter.”