The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) has announced that veteran political leader Mike Bell will join the department as Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Fire Prevention, which includes the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
A native of McMinn County and former small business owner, Bell brings a wealth of experience from his 16 years in the Tennessee General Assembly, where he served as both a state representative and state senator. His legislative career included key leadership roles as chairman of the Senate Government Operation Committee (2012-2018) and the Senate Judiciary Committee (2019-2022). In 2022, Bell transitioned to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) as Senior Policy Advisor and Legislative Director.
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TDCI Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Carter Lawrence expressed his enthusiasm for Bell’s appointment. “I am thrilled to have as knowledgeable, dedicated, and experienced leader as Mike Bell join the TDCI team to help us fulfill our mission of protecting Tennesseans and empowering professionals,” Lawrence said. “While we interviewed numerous qualified candidates for this crucial leadership role, Mike’s proven experience at successfully tackling complicated tasks across a wide range of governmental and consumer areas made him the best choice. I believe his vision and leadership skills will elevate our Department as we continue to find new efficiencies and prepare for any challenges that may lie ahead.”
Bell is also known for his commitment to his community, evidenced by his volunteer work with Claxton Community Volunteer Emergency Services, where he earned his First Responder certification. Bell and his wife, Lisa, have been married for 39 years and are parents to five children and grandparents to seven, with an eighth grandchild on the way.
Bell expressed his excitement about his new role. “I know firsthand how the men and women who protect their communities as volunteer firefighters deserve everything we can do to support them, which is why I supported legislative proposals such as the Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training Grant Program, as well as the Volunteer Educational Incentive Program,” Bell said. “By joining the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office, I hope to inspire our team to find new ways to make a difference in the lives of firefighters, citizens, and all our stakeholders. I am tremendously excited about getting started in my new role, and I can’t wait to get to know my team.”
Bell will begin his new position at TDCI on August 19, 2024.
Source: Read Original Release
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