The journey of a public servant often begins with a desire to improve the lives of others. For Derrik Rochwalik, chief of staff for the City of Phoenix Vice Mayor, that desire became an unwavering mission. What sets Rochwalik apart is not simply his ambition, but the depth of purpose that drives it. His rise through local government is more than a career progression—it’s the culmination of years spent listening, learning and leading with compassion.
Rochwalik’s early steps into government were shaped by experiences that showed him what authentic leadership looked like in action. These weren’t polished speeches or grand gestures—they were quiet moments of impact, daily commitments to service that shaped entire communities. With a deep appreciation for collaboration and consensus-building, he quickly became an influential force within City Hall, gaining the trust of colleagues and constituents alike. His current position allows him to channel that influence into tangible change, helping to guide one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.
In recent years, Rochwalik has championed initiatives that strengthened Phoenix’s infrastructure, expanded civic engagement and nurtured innovation within city departments. He transformed challenges into opportunities, showing that even within bureaucracy, bold thinking can thrive. His leadership style—firm yet empathetic—has earned him recognition among peers, and the results speak for themselves. Programs launched under his guidance have already begun to improve quality of life across neighborhoods.
Recognized as a Titan 100 Honoree, Rochwalik represents a new era of civic leadership. He brings fresh energy to the public sector, coupled with the strategic acumen often associated with corporate environments. His ability to marry vision with execution is what makes him invaluable to Phoenix’s evolution. He views local government not as an institution, but as a platform to empower people.
Rochwalik believes the future of civic work hinges on adaptability and digital transformation. He’s helping staff build the skills they need to respond to tomorrow’s challenges, equipping them with tools for dynamic problem-solving in an increasingly complex urban environment. At the same time, he nurtures his own passion through mentorship and engagement, keeping close ties to community voices and staying grounded in the values that first brought him into the arena.
Among his many accomplishments, one stands out: being named to the 40 under 40 list at just 29. That distinction isn’t just a marker of early success—it reflects the depth of his impact in a field not always known for rapid progress. Yet Rochwalik doesn’t rest on accolades. His vision for Phoenix stretches far beyond the horizon, with aspirations of fostering inclusive policies, advancing equity and building resilient systems.
In a city where growth brings both opportunity and complexity, Rochwalik is a guiding force, reminding others that leadership begins with service and flourishes with integrity. Through his work, he exemplifies what it means to lead not for applause, but for progress. And in doing so, he proves that even in the heart of government, transformation is possible.
