Griggs was the president of Eighth & Whitner Group LLC, a media, marketing, and government relations agency focused on policy engagement and program issues that improve community outcomes. Prior to that, he worked for the Florida Department of Health in Duval County, serving as the Director of Communications and Community Engagement, then later as Director of External Affairs.

He is a longtime member of 100 Black Men of Jacksonville, Inc. and serves on the board of directors of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Griggs has also served on the Jacksonville Human Rights Commission, Arts in Public Places Commission, and the Jacksonville Journey Oversight Committee. In 2015, he received the Mayor’s Lifetime Journey Award for his eight years of service on the Jacksonville Journey Oversight Committee.

In his new role with the City, Griggs will be responsible for promoting community initiatives focused on a comprehensive approach to public safety centered around crime prevention and intervention. This will include reimagining the Jacksonville Journey, while providing oversight to the City’s current programs in that area.

“I am very much looking forward to Charles joining the Mayor’s Office in this critical role,” said Mayor Donna Deegan. “He brings vast knowledge and experience in both city government and the Jacksonville Journey. Relaunching this vital program is a top priority of our administration and it will be in good hands with Charles at the helm.”