City of Newark, NJ Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

City of Newark, NJ has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, fiscal oversight, financial management, and administrative operations.

Committed to enhancing urban life, City of Newark, NJ delivers essential public services and diverse community amenities. This leadership team drives sustainable growth and maintains high standards for all residents across the region.

Leadership Roles at City of Newark, NJ

  • Chief Executive Officer - D. Giordano
  • Chief Financial Officer - Jason Ndungu
  • Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Benjamin Guzman
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Chuen Eng-Ferrell
  • D. Giordano - Chief Executive Officer

    D. Giordano, the Chief Executive Officer at City of Newark, NJ, directs all municipal strategy and administrative functions. Overseeing the implementation of city-wide policies, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between public service delivery and the evolving needs of the local population. This leadership role involves coordinating across various departments to optimize resource allocation and improve resident access to essential amenities. By fostering collaboration with regional stakeholders, D. Giordano strengthens the operational framework of the city. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on long-term urban development, ensuring that municipal initiatives support economic vitality and community well-being. Through rigorous oversight of city programs, Giordano drives efficiency and accountability within the government structure. This executive leadership ensures that the city remains responsive to the diverse requirements of the community while maintaining fiscal responsibility and operational excellence across all municipal sectors.

    Jason Ndungu - Chief Financial Officer

    Jason Ndungu, the Chief Financial Officer at City of Newark, NJ, manages the comprehensive fiscal health and budgetary planning for the municipality. Overseeing the allocation of public funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all financial activities support the strategic goals of the city. This leadership role involves monitoring revenue streams, managing debt obligations, and ensuring compliance with state and federal financial regulations. By implementing robust accounting practices, Jason Ndungu secures the economic stability required for ongoing infrastructure projects and community services. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to prioritize investments that yield the highest public benefit. Through precise financial forecasting and risk management, Ndungu maintains the integrity of the city budget. This executive leadership supports the overall mission of the city by providing the necessary financial foundation for sustainable growth and the delivery of high-quality public amenities to all residents.

    Benjamin Guzman - Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Benjamin Guzman, the Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at City of Newark, NJ, executes the daily financial operations and long-term fiscal strategy for the city. Overseeing the treasury and procurement departments, the Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer ensures that all expenditures align with the approved municipal budget. This leadership role involves analyzing economic data to inform policy decisions and optimizing the internal financial controls of the government. By streamlining payment processes and enhancing transparency, Benjamin Guzman improves the efficiency of city operations. The Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer works closely with the finance team to ensure accurate reporting and audit readiness. Through diligent management of municipal assets, Guzman supports the broader objectives of the city. This executive leadership ensures that financial resources remain available for critical public services, directly impacting the quality of life for the entire community.
    Benjamin Guzman

    Chuen Eng-Ferrell - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Chuen Eng-Ferrell, the Deputy Chief of Staff at City of Newark, NJ, coordinates the internal operations and cross-departmental communications for the municipal administration. Overseeing the flow of information between the executive office and various city agencies, the Deputy Chief of Staff ensures that strategic initiatives receive proper support and execution. This leadership role involves managing special projects, facilitating inter-departmental meetings, and resolving operational bottlenecks that hinder service delivery. By maintaining clear communication channels, Chuen Eng-Ferrell fosters a cohesive work environment that prioritizes resident needs. The Deputy Chief of Staff assists in the development of policy frameworks that enhance the accessibility of city amenities. Through proactive management of administrative workflows, Eng-Ferrell drives organizational productivity. This executive leadership ensures that the city government functions as a unified entity, effectively addressing the complex challenges of urban governance while promoting the overall welfare of the local population.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding City of Newark, NJ Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads City of Newark, NJ?
    City of Newark, NJ is led by D. Giordano (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jason Ndungu (Chief Financial Officer) and Benjamin Guzman (Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of City of Newark, NJ’s executive team?
    The executive team of City of Newark, NJ includes leaders such as D. Giordano (Chief Executive Officer), Jason Ndungu (Chief Financial Officer), Benjamin Guzman (Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does City of Newark, NJ have?
    City of Newark, NJ has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in City of Newark, NJ’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of City of Newark, NJ includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Acting Director, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Chief of Staff.