Staff Reports | Community Updates
Following a comprehensive national search, City Manager Jeff Barton has named Matt Giordano as the next chief of police at the Phoenix Police Department.
Chief Giordano, who serves as executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board and is a former Phoenix Police Officer, brings more than three decades of distinguished law enforcement experience to the role, officials at Phoenix City Hall say.
“This selection reflects what we heard from residents, officers, and community stakeholders,” Mr. Barton said in a prepared statement. “Matt Giordano is a respected leader with deep knowledge of policing in Phoenix, and he has earned a reputation for integrity, accountability, and building trust.”
Chief Giordano began his law enforcement career with the Phoenix Police Department, rising through the ranks until he left the department as a Commander to become Executive Chief of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
“I am pleased to welcome back Matthew Giordano to the Phoenix Police Department as our new police chief. Chief Giordano has a deep understanding of law enforcement and Phoenix as well as the skills and experience to lead our great department. I look forward to working with him to keep our city safe and continue the reforms instituted by the City Council,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “I also want to thank Acting Police Chief Dennis Orender, who did an excellent job over the last few months, for his continued service to our city and the department.”
Chief Giordano says he looks forward to the role as chief of police.
“I’m honored to return to the department where my career began,” Chief Giordano said. “I look forward to working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Phoenix Police Department and deepening partnerships with the communities we serve. Together, we will build a safer, stronger, and more unified Phoenix.”
Chief Giordano was selected after a highly competitive recruitment process that included multiple rounds of interviews, extensive engagement with community and labor groups, public feedback, and a citywide forum.
Community members involved in the selection process also expressed support.
“Matt Giordano understands the need for change and the importance of collaboration,” said Dennis Eckerd, longtime community Block Watch chairman. “He listens, and he leads with integrity.”
Other community leaders are also showing their support of the decision.
“Matt Giordano understands that strong public safety starts with strong community relationships,” said Ruben Alvarez, CEO of the Latino Leaders Network. “We are encouraged by his commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement with all of Phoenix’s diverse communities. This is an opportunity to build greater trust and ensure every resident feels seen, heard, and protected.”
Chief Giordano’s official start date and swearing-in ceremony will be announced after all background and hiring standards are completed.
