Just days after Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard Kelley announced his retirement, the city named Derrick Kiel to lead the department.

Kiel, who will become the city's 22nd fire chief, is a 27-year veteran of the department and takes over on Oct. 1.

"Throughout his 27-year career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to serving both the residents of Oklahoma City and the members of the Fire Department," the department shared in a statement.

He joined the department March 19, 1999 and served at every rank.

He currently is the Deputy Chief of Support Services and Logistics, where he is responsible for human resources, facilities and fleet maintenance, fire logistics and fire dispatchers.

"As Oklahoma City's 22nd Fire Chief, Chief Kiel will lead more than 1,100 employees and continue the department's mission of protecting lives and property through excellence in service. He will also become the Oklahoma City Fire Department's first Black Fire Chief.," the department stated.