Rebecca Kirszner Katz is exiting her role as special advisor to New York Mayor Bill deBlasio for a partner slot at Hilltop Public Solutions.
The New York Times called Katz "the primary protector of the de Blasio family's public image."
Joining de Blasio's team in 2009 when he ran for public advocate, Katz is considered "the fifth member of our immediate family," according to the Mayor.
She handled media relations and cultivated deBlasio's cultural profile by arranging for celebrities such as Chris Rock and Louis C.K. to appear at public events at City Hall, according to the Times.
Katz also ironed out appearances for de Blasio on "The Daily Show" and "The Colbert Report."
She says she will continue to offer advice to de Blasio.
Jeffrey Nesbit, who served as communications director for former vice president Dan Quayle, is named assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services.
Kate Bedingfield, White House communications director, will exit at the end of the month. Ben LaBolt, a longtime Biden adviser, will take the CD post.
Cathy Cochran, senior VP in Teneo’s Washington office, has rejoined the US Dept of Agriculture as director in its communications office.
Mexico is working with the DC-based Global Action on Gun Violence to push for “impactful gun violence prevention strategies” in the US.
Douglas Farrar, who was VP-communications and strategy at the Carnegie Center for International Peace, has joined the Federal Trade Commission as PA director.
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