Mayor selects Deputy Chief Janine Nicholson as next San Francisco fire chief; outgoing Chief Hayes White to retire

Mayor London Breed announced on the morning of March 13 that Deputy Chief of Administration Janine Nicholson has been selected to succeed Joanne Hayes White as chief of the San Francisco Fire Department. The announcement was referenced by Chief Hayes White during her report at the Fire Commission meeting; Hayes White thanked the mayor and the commission and said she will ensure "a smooth transition" and remain available after her retirement.

Nicholson, introduced to the commission and public at the meeting, accepted the designation and said she was "humbled" and would "continue to work hard and collaborate with all sorts of different stakeholders to move this department forward." Commissioners congratulated Nicholson; multiple commissioners described the selection as the outcome of an extensive search and interview process and expressed full support.

Chief Hayes White highlighted Nicholson's more than 25 years of service and the department's role in supporting the transition. Commissioners noted the selection also reflects internal succession: several said they were pleased the mayor picked a candidate from within the department. The commission did not take formal action on the appointment; the mayor's announcement was presented as the selection step in the appointment process.

Next steps: Chief Hayes White said she will serve through May 5 and will assist with transition activities; the commission and department leaders said they will support onboarding and a smooth handoff of duties.