New Director of Communications Named to Staff
PHOENIX - Governor Jan Brewer today announced her appointment of Andrew Wilder as Director of Communications for the administration.
Mr. Wilder, currently with the Arizona Department of Corrections, will serve as chief spokesman and primary media contact for the Governor’s Office, and will manage and direct all strategic communications and media interaction. Mr. Wilder succeeds Matthew Benson, who is leaving the Brewer administration to join Phoenix-based public affairs firm Veridus, where he will be a Director specializing in the areas of communications and public affairs.
"With more than a decade worth of high-level communications experience – including service as spokesman for United States Senator Jon Kyl – Andrew is a welcome addition to my senior staff,” said Governor Brewer."His extensive background in media relations and strategic messaging, coupled with a deep familiarity with government and policy, will be a tremendous asset to my administration and the public.”
In April 2013, Mr. Wilder joined the Arizona Department of Corrections as Director of Communications. Prior to that, he served as Communications Director for then-Congressman Jeff Flake’s successful campaign for U.S. Senate (2012). Mr. Wilder was a key aide to Senator Kyl, serving first as Press Secretary (1999-2005), and later as Communications Director (2006-2012).
Mr. Wilder’s earlier roles include experience as a congressional staffer for the U.S. House of Representatives (1998-1999); media analyst for the Republican National Committee (1997-1998); and two stints in local radio as a Producer for KTAR (1995-1997) and Production Assistant for KFYI (1989-1991). In 1994, he was a state aide to U.S. Senator John McCain. Mr. Wilder earned a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the University of Arizona (1994).
"It is with mixed emotions that I make this announcement, because Matthew has been a valued member of my team and has played a critical role in reaching the public and helping tell the story of my administration over these last few years,” said Governor Brewer."He is a talented communicator with keen political insight, and he has served this State with both composure and character. While I will miss him among my senior staff, I know he looks forward to devoting more time to his young family, and I wish him all the best.”
Mr. Benson had served as Director of Communications for the Governor’s Office since January 2011. His departure is effective July 19, 2013.
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