CHARLOTTE -- Reginald Johnson is the Queen City's new fire chief.

Charlotte City Manager Marcus Jones announced his hiring Thursday.   

Johnson comes to Charlotte from Fairfax County, Virginia, were he currently serves as the assistant fire chief of operations.   

He spent the last 24 years working in fire and emergency management. 

“Reggie’s passion for the fire service is second only to his passion for people,” Jones said. “He is an excellent communicator with a talent for relationship building that will be instrumental in continuing Charlotte Fire Department’s track record of success.”

“I am honored, blessed and humbled to serve as Charlotte’s next fire chief,” Johnson said. “I look forward to meeting the men and women who have cemented Charlotte Fire Department as a leader in fire service and emergency management. Together, I know we can accomplish great things.”

Johnson will start on April 30. 

The CFD operates 42 fire stations and provides fire protection for 322 square miles of land.