Note: This post has been updated to reflect that Bell's title will be Communications Director, not Press Secretary. The administration is still looking for a replacement for Press Secretary Doug Oliver, who is leaving his post next month.
Here's the release:
MAYOR NUTTER ANNOUNCES DESIREE PETERKIN BELL AS DIRECTOR OF
COMMUNICATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Philadelphia, August 26, 2010 – Today, Mayor Michael A. Nutter announced that Desiree Peterkin Bell has been appointed as Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships for the Mayor's Office. In her position, Ms. Bell will be responsible for the long term planning and oversight of the Mayor's communications strategy and will work closely with the Mayor and top Administration officials as a senior advisor.
"I am thrilled to welcome Desiree to this Administration," said Mayor Nutter. "She brings with her a wealth of knowledge from all levels of government and has proven talents communicating innovatively, effectively and directly to citizens. She will play an integral and strategic role in my Administration, and she is an ideal candidate to lead our communication office."
"I am excited about joining Mayor Nutter and his Administration to serve the citizens of Philadelphia. I look forward to working together with constituents inside and outside of City Hall to ensure that strategic partnerships and effective communications are assets for, and deliver value to, what I believe is one of America's greatest cities," said Ms. Bell.
Ms. Bell had served as Director of Communications for Mayor Corey A. Booker in Newark, NJ. In her capacity, she created and managed a multi-pronged communications strategy including citizen outreach campaigns, new media and the launch of Newark's first municipal television studio.
"During her time with us, Desiree restructured the City's Public Information Office to be more responsive, effective and innovative," said Mayor Booker. "Her creativity and commitment to redefine how municipal government communicates to better inform residents has been invaluable. I wish her all the best as she continues her public service career in the Nutter Administration. Desiree leaves us with a tremendous legacy of achievement. I thank her for her service, commitment and counsel. She was a significant member of my team and will be missed."
Before joining Mayor Booker's office, she worked as Senior Director and Vice President of Government Affairs at the New York City Marketing Development Corporation. She was also the Supervising Legislative Representative for the City of New York under Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Ms. Bell's appointment is effective Monday, September 20, 2010. Her salary will be $150,000, which is subject to a five percent salary reduction.