Matt Giordano, a former Phoenix Police commander and most recently executive director of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST), has been sworn in as the new Chief of the Phoenix Police Department, city officials announced.
“Matt Giordano is a respected leader with deep knowledge of policing in Phoenix,” said City Manager Jeff Barton. “He has earned a reputation for integrity, accountability and building trust.”
Giordano began his law enforcement career with the Phoenix Police Department, rising to the rank of commander before serving as executive chief at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Most recently, he led the state agency responsible for police training and certification.
Mayor Kate Gallego called his appointment a strong step forward. “He has the skills and experience to lead our great department,” Gallego said. “I look forward to working with him to keep our city safe and continue the reforms instituted by the City Council.”
Giordano said he was honored to return to the department where he started. “I’m committed to strengthening trust, deepening partnerships and serving all communities across Phoenix,” he noted at his swearing-in ceremony.
His selection followed a national search that included public forums and community engagement. Giordano was one of three finalists, along with Malik Aziz of Prince George’s County, Maryland, and Mirtha V. Ramos of DeKalb County, Georgia.
Community leaders praised the decision. Longtime Block Watch leader Dennis Eckerd said Giordano “understands the need for change and the importance of collaboration.” Ruben Alvarez, CEO of the Latino Leaders Network, called him “committed to transparency, accountability and engagement with all of Phoenix’s diverse communities.”
Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien said Giordano “truly understands the issues Phoenix faces,” citing his leadership at Phoenix PD, MCSO, and AZPOST. Councilman Kevin Robinson noted Giordano’s ethics and communication skills, while Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington said the hire “represents a collaborative commitment to thoughtful, community-centered reform.”
Giordano officially assumed command in mid-August and held his first press conference on Aug. 13, outlining priorities that include building community trust, supporting officers, and increasing transparency. He also reiterated that the department will not participate in immigration enforcement.