“This team reflects my commitment to attract the best and brightest to serve in city government,” said Brown. “Today we are announcing some of the senior members of the leadership team. We anticipate additional announcements will be made within the next week.”

Consistent with her strong commitment to public service, Kerri Stewart has agreed to assist the mayor in ensuring a smooth transition. She will retain her current role as chief administrative officer at the present time. Her end-date has yet to be determined, but the mayor expects that she will remain in place as he completes the budget process.

“Continuity of government is important and we have major budget challenges to tackle” said Brown. “We greatly appreciate that Kerri has agreed to remain in her current role as chief administrative officer for the time being.”

Attorney Kevin Hyde will work with Stewart as he assumes the role of chief administrative officer. Hyde, a former president of the Jacksonville City Council, is the managing partner of Foley & Larder’s Jacksonville office where he also serves as the vice chair of the Labor and Employment Practice.

Chris Hand has agreed to serve as chief of staff. Hand is an attorney with Terrell Hogan, one of Florida’s most well-known law firms. Hand has a distinguished public service career, previously serving as press secretary for former U.S. Sen. Bob Graham. He played a crucial role in assisting with the mayor’s transition team.

C. Ronald (Ronnie) Belton has been nominated by the mayor to serve as the city’s chief financial officer. His appointment is subject to confirmation by the City Council. Belton is currently executive vice president/chief compliance officer with Riverplace Capital Management, Inc. a position he has held since 1998. Belton began his career with Merrill Lynch, where he served as the senior financial consultant for 20 years.

Abel Harding will serve as the mayor’s director of communications. Harding has worked as a reporter and columnist for the Florida Times-Union. Prior to joining the Times-Union, Harding spent 15 years in the banking industry, most recently serving as vice president of commercial lending.

Sen. Tony Hill will serve as the mayor’s federal government liaison. Hill currently serves as co-chair of the mayor’s transition team. A longshoreman, Hill has served eight years in the Florida House of Representatives before winning a seat in the Florida Senate in 2002.

Rep. Mia Jones will serve as special assistant to the mayor. Jones served two terms on the Jacksonville City Council before winning election to the Florida House of Representatives in 2008.

Alison Miller will serve as the executive assistant to the mayor. Miller, who holds a law degree from Florida State University, previously served as the executive assistant for Councilmember Kevin Hyde.