Mayor Lurie Reshuffles Communications Team in Early Administration Shakeup
Less than two months into his administration, San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie has announced a significant change within his communications team. Nina Negusse, who served as Communications Director, is no longer with the administration, signaling a new direction for Lurie’s handling of public communications.
Changes in Leadership
The Mayor’s Office has appointed Han Zou, Lurie’s former campaign manager, to fill the role of Communications Director. This change follows Negusse’s departure, which was effective as of Thursday. Zou initially held the position of director of public affairs, a role now left vacant due to this transition.
Zou played a pivotal part in Lurie’s successful campaign, particularly noted for his efforts in engaging with the Asian American community and enhancing grassroots outreach.
Official Statements
Press Secretary Charles Lutvak issued a statement regarding the shift, expressing gratitude for Negusse’s contributions: “Nina was a valued member of our team, we appreciate her contributions to the administration, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors. Han Zou has been a trusted advisor to the mayor, and we are excited to have him taking on an expanded role leading our communications efforts in addition to his work managing our public affairs team.”
Background on Nina Negusse
Nina Negusse’s tenure in San Francisco politics includes previous roles as a public information officer for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and a position at the Department of Elections. Most recently, she held the title of vice president in crisis and risk communications at the public relations firm Edelman before joining Lurie’s team.
Her exit comes amid reports of tensions between the Mayor’s communications team and various department heads. According to the San Francisco Standard, there was pushback regarding new directives that limited departments from issuing their press statements, a strategy perceived as overly assertive and micromanaging.
New Strategy Moving Forward
This reshuffle aligns with the Lurie administration’s goal to centralize communications under four deputy mayors and various administrative figures, including the press secretary and communications director. This strategic approach aims to streamline the oversight of over 50 city departments and their corresponding agencies.
As Mayor Lurie continues to navigate the complexities of city governance, the effectiveness of this new structure and team will be crucial in managing public relations and communications throughout his term.
As of now, Nina Negusse has not publicly commented on her departure from the administration.
