The City of Winchester is pleased to announce that former Winchester Fire & Rescue Chief, Frank Wright, has been appointed as the Interim Chief.

The position became vacant on Saturday, Feb. 23 when Chief Scott Cullers retired.

“We are very fortunate to have Frank available to return to the Department in the capacity of interim Fire & Rescue Chief,” stated Winchester City Manager, Dale Iman. “Frank’s vast knowledge of and experience with the Winchester Fire & Rescue Department will be beneficial in maintaining current services and continuing to move the organization forward. The decision to bring back retired Chief Wright as opposed to temporarily appointing someone from within the department was done to ensure that all internal candidates for the permanent position of Fire & Rescue Chief were provided a level playing field,” stated Iman.

Frank served 30 years with the Winchester Fire & Rescue Department rising through the ranks from a career firefighter to chief. “I’m very excited about returning to the City and working with the volunteer and career staff as well as our community,” said Frank Wright. “I can’t wait to get started and to get reacquainted with the department. I greatly appreciate Mr. Iman offering me this opportunity.”

Frank began his career as a volunteer firefighter at Shawnee Fire Company in 1972. He was hired by the City in 1974 as a dispatcher and in 1975 as a career firefighter. Frank retired from the Winchester Fire & Rescue Department in 2010.

To fill this very important position, the City will initiate a national search utilizing the following publications and networking organizations in addition to local media sources:
• VA Fire Chief’s Association
• International City-County Management Association
• National League of Cities
• Virginia Municipal League
• International Fire Chief’s Association

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