KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Chris Caldwell, a 10-year Knox County Department of Finance employee, is the county's new finance director, Mayor Tim Burchett announced Tuesday.
Caldwell fills the position after Burton Webb was terminated the same day he became county finance director in April, due to extensive legal issues.
In June 2002, Caldwell began working for Knox County as an accountant. Since then, he has worked his way up to the position of accounting and budget director, and has been serving as interim finance director since April.
"Chris has done an outstanding job as interim finance director and has proven that he is fully capable of serving in that position on a permanent basis," Mayor Burchett said in a press release.
"His work during the budget process, combined with the amount of respect he has earned from commissioners, employees in his own department and other financial professionals give me great confidence in this decision," Burchett added.
"This is an amazing opportunity and also a humbling appointment," Caldwell said. "I am honored by the faith and confidence the mayor has shown in me. I know how difficult this job can be, but I am committed to doing whatever work is necessary to make the citizens we work for proud of this office. We are stewards of their money, and at the end of the day I want to do my part to make certain they feel good about their government."
Knox County Audit Committee Chairman Dr. Joe Carcello said, "...I've been impressed with Chris's knowledge, integrity and interpersonal skills. I know that Knox County and its citizens will be well served with Chris as finance director."
Caldwell is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association and the Tennessee Government Finance Officers Association.
Finance Director Chris Caldwell (source: Knox County)
