Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed on Monday named James “Jim” Graboys police chief for the city following what the mayor’s office said was a comprehensive national search.

Graboys had served as interim chief since July 15. He has worked for the Montgomery Police Department for more than 20 years during a career that also includes experience with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and serving as the police chief at Alabama State University from 2012 to 2019.

“Chief Graboys has shown outstanding leadership during his tenure,” Reed said in a press release. “I’m confident he will continue to lead the Montgomery Police Department with integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to our community’s safety.”

Graboys’ tenure as interim chief came after the resignation of Chief Darryl Albert in April.

The mayor’s office said the announcement followed months of evaluation and talks with community leaders.

The city hired Strategic Government Resources (SGR), a Texas-based recruitment firm, to assist in the search. SGR helped assess and narrow down more than 40 candidates to four finalists before the selection of Graboys.

This appointment marks a significant step in Montgomery’s efforts to enhance public safety and foster community trust, the mayor’s office said.