On Monday, Mayor Mike Johnston announced Al Gardner’s appointment as Deputy Mayor of Denver. Gardner will serve a one-year term while continuing his responsibilities as executive director of General Services. He will also step in for Mayor Johnston whenever he is unavailable in his new role.

“I have full confidence in Al’s leadership, dedication, and passion for serving the people of Denver,” said Mayor Johnston. “I’m thankful that Al has agreed to take on this important role, and I look forward to working closely with him to help make Denver a dynamic, safe, and affordable city for all.”

Mayor Johnston appointed Gardner to head the Department of General Services in November 2023. He brings nearly 30 years of experience, including a background in engineering and leadership. His career highlights include leading a Denver-based startup hospitality company to a successful IPO in 2022 and receiving Governor Polis’s appointment to the Colorado Board of Health.

In addition to his professional roles, Gardner has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Denver African American Commission, the Denver Citizens Oversight Board, and the Denver Civil Service Commission. He has also contributed to the Denver Police and Sheriff’s Advisory Boards.

As a board member of the Colorado Technology Association and an adjunct instructor at the University of Denver, Gardner continues to share his expertise. He has earned recognition, including the C-suite award from the Denver Business Journal, and was featured in the PBS documentary series Road Trip Nation.