JANESVILLE — The City of Janesville announced Tuesday the selection of Ryan Murphy as the sole finalist for Fire Chief, pending the acceptance of an offer letter from the city.

Ryan Murphy currently is Battalion Chief for the City of Janesville Fire Department, a title he has held since 2018. Since joining the City of Janesville in 1999, Murphy has served as Captain, Lieutenant, and Firefighter/Paramedic/Motor Pump Operator.

The Police and Fire Commission voted to select Murphy as the sole finalist after a nationwide recruitment and extensive selection process.

“On behalf of the Police and Fire Commission, it was an honor and privilege to be part of the process to find the next Fire Chief for Janesville,” said Police and Fire Commission Chairman Mark Terry in a news release. “I believe Mr. Murphy is the right person to lead our dedicated Fire Department now and in the future.”

“The Janesville Fire Department has a long history of providing exceptional emergency services, and I am honored to be chosen as the next Fire Chief,” Ryan Murphy said. “I look forward to working with the great men and women of the JFD and serving the community of Janesville and surrounding townships.”

The announcement follows an extensive recruitment and selection process, which included a Fire Chief Candidate Meet and Greet where attendees could ask questions, discuss topics of interest, and provide feedback on the candidates.

“We are excited to have Mr. Murphy named as the next Fire Chief for the City of Janesville,” City Manager Kevin Lahner stated. “Ryan brings forth a wealth of knowledge and experience and will be a great leader for our group of talented professionals.”