New Fire Chief

CITY OF RIDGELAND ANNOUNCES NEW FIRE CHIEF AND HONORS
CHIEF MATT BAILEY FOR HIS YEARS OF SERVICE

RIDGELAND, MS – The City of Ridgeland is proud to welcome Jonathan Posey as the new Fire Chief of the Ridgeland Fire Department. Posey has been with the department since 2015, serving in key roles as a firefighter, sergeant, lieutenant, and training officer. His years of hands-on experience and leadership have prepared him well for this next step.

In addition to his fire service career, Posey also served in the Mississippi Army National Guard. He held positions with the 1st of the 155th Armored Brigade Combat team and served as Sergeant Medic, EVAC NCOIC.

Posey succeeds Fire Chief Matt Bailey, who recently retired after an outstanding 37-year career in fire service. Chief Bailey began his journey with the Ellisville Fire Department, serving three years before being appointed Chief in 1989. He later spent 10 years as an Instructor and Senior Instructor at the Mississippi State Fire Academy, helping train the next generation of firefighters across the state.

In 2001, Chief Bailey took the helm at the Ridgeland Fire Department, leading it with integrity and vision for 24 years. Under his leadership, the department advanced in professionalism, training, and community involvement. His legacy of mentorship and innovation leaves a lasting impact on Ridgeland and the broader fire service community.