Joseph Pfeifer, second-in-command at the FDNY, was recently forced out by the new Commissioner Robert Tucker shortly after Tucker took over the position. Pfeifer, who was the department’s highest earner at over $500,000, announced his departure in a farewell email to his colleagues, stating that City Hall would be replacing him with a new First Deputy Commissioner. While City Hall supported Tucker’s decision, no official replacement has been announced yet.
Pfeifer had previously served in the department for 37 years until his retirement in 2018 when he was brought back to serve under the first female FDNY leader. It is believed that he was hired by then-Commissioner Lauren Kavanagh to ensure there was still firefighting experience in the top ranks of the department. This led to Pfeifer becoming the highest earner due to his ability to collect his FDNY salary and pension, totaling $522,000 in fiscal year 2024.
During his time under Kavanagh, Pfeifer managed the FDNY’s daily operations and activities across offices and bureaus. It is rumored that he could potentially be replaced by EMS Chief Michael Fields or Battalion Chief Mark Guerra. Additionally, other changes have occurred, such as Kavanagh’s chief of staff, Luis Martinez, being moved to City Hall to work under Deputy Mayor Phil Banks. This appointment had caused tension among some veteran fire chiefs and rank-and-file firefighters.
Following Pfeifer’s departure, new Commissioner Tucker will aim to build a staff that aligns with his vision for the FDNY and the administration. While Tucker has the support of City Hall for his decision, any leadership changes will be officially announced by the department. Pfeifer did not respond to requests for comment, leaving the reason for his forced exit unclear. Despite his long tenure in the FDNY, his role as second-in-command now comes to an end under the new leadership.
