Columbus City Council announced a new chief of staff this afternoon. Michael Brown, who serves on the City of Columbus Downtown Commission, among other boards, will begin his new role in late February.
“It is humbling to look at the work ahead, the diversity of opinions and issues and neighborhoods that City Council serves,” Brown said. “I am grateful for this opportunity to serve a city on the rise with this team of Council members and to advance their vision.”
Brown is the Vice President of Strategic Development at Experience Columbus, promoting Columbus’ brand to boost the region’s tourism economy. He’s involved in a range of other community boards and commissions, including the Recreation and Parks Commission, Film Columbus, Columbus Music Commission, Independents’ Day Festival, United Way of Central Ohio Marketing Advisory Group, Doo Dah Parade and the Jazz Arts Group.
This won’t be the first time Brown has worked directly with the City, as he also served as the Urban Ventures coordinator and the communications director for the former Mayor Michael B. Coleman administration from 2000 to 2010.
“Mike Brown loves Columbus. He has spent nearly two decades helping get things done in our complex and growing City,” said Council President Shannon Hardin. “As Council focuses on neighborhood safety, equitable development, job creation and our members’ priorities, we believe Brown’s experience will help our team maintain smart, sustainable collaboration with the administration and our many community partners.”