David Billings Named New Manchester Fire Chief

Manchester resident and former Assistant Fire Chief David Billings has been appointed as chief of Manchester Fire/Rescue/EMS, town General Manager Scott Shanley announced on Wednesday.

Here's Shanley's announcement, emailed late Wednesday afternoon:

I am pleased to announce that, after a rigorous competitive process, Assistant Chief David Billings has been appointed as the new chief of  Manchester Fire/Rescue/EMS.

Chief Billings rose above other qualified candidates through a series of assessment center exercises that were conducted and scored by a team of professionals  as well as multiple interviews.

Chief Billings, a Manchester resident, has held all ranks at Manchester Fire/Rescue/EMS in his  30-year career including serving as a volunteer for five years.

He holds a master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership ,is accredited as a Chief Fire Officer and has completed the National Executive Fire Officer program at Emmitsburg, MD. 

Chief Billings possesses the right combination of  practical management ,  front line experience and formal education to lead this critical firefighting, rescue and paramedic operation.

The new chief  said “It is a privilege to serve this community as Fire Chief and an honor to lead this proud department of professional men and women who are its greatest resource.”

Chief Billings  will start his new responsibilities on August 3rd . Chief Billings will earn $120,000 a year.