The South Portland Fire Department has promoted from within for its new fire chief, who brings 25 years of fire and emergency medical service experience.
Philip Selberg has served as interim chief since former chief James Wilson retired Feb. 3. He will begin his official duties as permanent chief May 18.
Selberg, who was selected from a field of 28 applicants, will be paid an annual salary of $114,899.
“The South Portland Fire Department has some of the most talented and caring providers in the industry, and I am grateful to have been selected to be their next chief,” Selberg said.
The South Portland Fire Department comprises 73 employees and 31 call company members. The annual operating budget is over $6 million.
Selberg began his career with the department in 1998, rising through the ranks to eventually become the deputy fire chief in 2018, where he was in charge of training and special operations.
He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Maine, a bachelor’s degree in applied technical leadership from the University of Southern Maine and an associate’s degree in fire science technology from Southern Maine Community College.
“We had excellent candidates to select from and Chief Selberg rose to the top,” said City Manager Scott Morelli. “He is the right person at the right time to lead the department, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”
