Hobbs Appoints New Adjutant General And Director Of Department Of Emergency And Military Affairs
By Jonathan Eberle |
Governor Katie Hobbs has named Brigadier General John Conley as the new Adjutant General of Arizona and Director of the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA).
In his new position, Brig. Gen. Conley will oversee the full scope of DEMA operations, including Arizona’s Army and Air National Guard units, Joint Task Force, Administrative Services, and the state’s Division of Emergency Management. The appointment comes as Arizona continues to contend with challenges related to border security, emergency preparedness, and the flow of illicit drugs into the state.
“Brigadier General Conley is a distinguished leader, accomplished lawyer, and dedicated public servant,” said Governor Hobbs in a statement. “As The Adjutant General and Director of DEMA, Conley will build on our efforts to secure the border and protect Arizona communities.”
Brig. Gen. Conley has more than 30 years of commissioned service in both the Army and Air National Guard. For the past 14 years, he has held key roles within the Arizona National Guard, including his most recent position as Director of Administrative Services for DEMA. There, he managed critical support functions such as personnel, finance, and mission planning for the Guard and Emergency Management Division.
Conley also previously served as the senior legal advisor for the Arizona National Guard, overseeing Judge Advocates and legal personnel across all service components. His work included the development of military cyber operations, where he played a pivotal role in establishing interagency cybersecurity partnerships with the FBI and the Arizona Department of Administration.
“I’m honored that Governor Hobbs has selected me to lead the Arizona National Guard and DEMA,” said Conley. “Throughout my career, I have been driven by a desire to defend our country and to keep people safe. I look forward to continuing to serve Arizonans alongside the exceptional men and women of DEMA.”
Conley’s appointment comes at a time when Arizona faces heightened scrutiny over border security and public safety.
Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.