Village of Bald Head Island names new emergency services director
BALD HEAD ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — The Village of Bald Head Island has announced the appointment of Paul Anderson as its new Emergency Services Director. Anderson officially began his role today.
Anderson joins the Village from the Tucson Fire Department in Arizona, a large agency of approximately 650 personnel, where he most recently served as Deputy Chief. His career includes extensive experience in operational command, supervisory leadership, and emergency management coordination, including work within Emergency Operations Center (EOC) environments.
Village Manager Chris McCall said Anderson stood out during the hiring process for his leadership approach and interpersonal skills.
“Throughout the interview process, Paul demonstrated a leadership style grounded in professionalism, approachability, and a genuine ability to connect with people. I feel confident he will be a good fit for the Department of Public Safety as we continue to advance our organization,” McCall said.
The hiring aligns with the Village’s continued development of a comprehensive Emergency Services Director model designed to strengthen unified command, emergency coordination, and all-hazards preparedness across the organization.
Under this structure, the Emergency Services Director will provide overall leadership, policy direction, and coordination for the Department of Public Safety while working closely with Village administration and command staff.
Deputy Chief Phil Horne, who leads the Law Enforcement Division, will serve as the agency’s highest-ranking sworn law enforcement officer, overseeing police operations and ensuring compliance with legal and professional standards. Deputy Chief Buddy Brooks will continue to oversee fire suppression, emergency medical services, and related operations. Both will report directly to the Emergency Services Director and remain key members of the department’s command staff.
“I am humbled and excited to have been chosen as the next Director of Emergency Services for the Village of Bald Head Island,” Anderson said. “I look forward to working alongside the outstanding professionals within the Department of Public Safety to continue providing the highest level of service for the residents and visitors of Bald Head Island.”
The Village stated that the new structure is intended to improve coordination, accountability, and efficiency across emergency response operations while supporting continued public safety excellence on the island.
