Melissa Giordano
Managing Director
Email: mgiordano@cardinalsp.com
Phone: 646-734-4485
Melissa’s professional career has been defined by helping people navigate high-stakes decisions. One of her greatest strengths as a legal recruiter is her ability to truly listen and connect. Melissa does not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, she takes the time to understand each candidate’s career goals, life priorities, and unique personal and professional background. This individualized approach has earned her a reputation as a trusted mentor who provides thoughtful, strategic career guidance tailored to a wide range of aspirations.
Melissa began her career practicing law in the litigation department at Kaye Scholer LLP, where she specialized in mass tort litigation. During her time at the firm, she spent six years serving on the Recruiting Committee and acting as a key liaison to the Hiring Committee. In this role, she leveraged her strong interpersonal skills to help candidates feel at ease, assess whether the firm was the right fit, and ensure the firm was attracting and hiring top talent.
After leaving the practice of law and prior to joining Cardinal, Melissa found success as a Senior College Admissions Consultant, guiding students and their families through the highly competitive and often stressful college admissions process. She helped clients make informed, confident decisions about their futures by listening closely, understanding their goals, addressing their concerns, and empowering them to trust their strengths and instincts. Today, Melissa brings this same approach to legal recruiting—working closely with attorneys at all levels to clarify their goals, effectively position their experience, identify opportunities that genuinely align, and provide steadfast support throughout the entire process.
Melissa earned her B.A. magna cum laude from Binghamton University, where she double majored in Political Science and English/Rhetoric. She went on to receive her J.D. with distinction from Hofstra University School of Law, where she was a member of the Hofstra Law Review and a recipient of the Public Justice Foundation Fellowship Award.
Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with her three children and their rescue dog, Joey. She loves traveling—preferably to anywhere with a beach (skiing is never an option)—her weekly SoulCycle rides, and cheering on the New York Yankees and Islanders.