The Atlanta City Council confirmed the appointment of Greg Giornelli as chief operating officer for the city July 16, replacing Lynnette Young who is departing to head the city’s Future Sustainability Initiative.

“Greg Giornelli has broad experience in many aspects of city government and will bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the position,” said Mayor Shirley Franklin. “We embrace him and look forward to the city progressing and thriving under his leadership.”

Giornelli formerly served as the president of the Atlanta Development Authority, the city agency charged with economic and community development, as well as housing finance. Prior to that appointment, he served as the city’s chief policy officer, reporting to Mayor Franklin on a host of policy issues, including homelessness, ethics, affordable housing, parks and green space, and economic development.

As chief operating officer, Giornelli will provide policy direction and executive management over virtually all city and the external operating agencies.

“As he demonstrated at the helm of the Atlanta Development Authority, Greg Giornelli is a very capable individual who delivers results,” said City Councilman Howard Shook, chair of the Council’s Finance/Executive Committee. “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge of city government and its many operations.”