Mayor Michelle Wu has officially announced that Boston Fire Department veteran Paul Burke has been appointed as the new Fire Commissioner. Burke, who most recently served as a Deputy Chief, replaces the outgoing Jack Dempsey, who hit the mandatory retirement age of 65 in June.

Burke’s most recent posting as deputy chief of fleet and facilities has involved supervising all. vehicles and buildings. Previously, he managed the team in charge of technical rescues and other emergencies.

“Paul is a trusted leader in this department and has served in many roles leading our fire response,” Mayor Wu said in a statement. “I’m proud to welcome this Roslindale native into leadership as a partner to build a healthy environment for our firefighters and a diverse, connected workforce serving our communities in moments of need.”

“It is a tremendous honour to have the opportunity to lead our Fire Department,” Commissioner Burke said in a statement. “I look forward to working with all of our firefighters to deliver this critical service to our city.”