Chief William Swann | Director Chief | Nashville Fire Department | UNITED STATES

William Swann serves as the Director Chief of the Nashville Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management, a rank he has proudly held since 2018.

Swann first joined the Nashville Fire Department in 1995 and has worked diligently, moving through every position from firefighter to instructor at the Training Academy to the Deputy Fire Director.

As the Director Chief, Swann has been responsible for leading Nashville’s coordinated emergency response to several disasters, including the March 2020 tornado, the COVID-19 pandemic, the May 2020 Derecho, the Nashville Christmas Day Bombing, the tragic Covenant School Shooting, and the fatal December 2023 tornado. The city’s major planned events also fall under his scope of management, including the 2019 NFL Draft, annual CMA Festivals, 4th of July celebrations, and nationally televised New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Chief Swann enjoys sharing best practices learned from these experiences with others, as highlighted by his invitation to speak at the White House by NATO. He authored a book, “Inspire”, focused on a look at leadership and provides him the opportunity to continue to serve others through teaching and mentoring.

He takes great pride in being active in the community. In addition to supporting several local organizations, Chief Swann teaches several courses including adult leadership, CPR, First-Aid, and Advanced Life Support.

Director Swann and his wife, Connie, have been married since 1989. They live in Nashville with their children and enjoy all the quality time they can share together.