Rachel Cohen, an attorney and digital strategist, succeeds Erin Connelly, who was communications director for over two years.
"Rachel is a fighter who stands on her values, and I am excited to welcome her to our team," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The way people get their news and information is changing, and we have to meet Chicagoans where they are. Rachel understands how to take complex issues and make them accessible, while bringing the work of this administration directly to people on every platform. She shares our commitment to building a safer, more affordable, and more equitable Chicago, and I look forward to having her perspective on our team."
Cohen said in a statement, "I am honored to join Mayor Johnson's administration, which has been working tirelessly to deliver progressive policy, and work with the team to ensure Chicagoans know how to take advantage of the many resources and programs Mayor Johnson has spearheaded. Chicagoans are engaged, curious, opinionated people, and I'm particularly excited to build on Erin Connelly's excellent work in advance of budget season. Chicagoans deserve to know what their government is doing, how it affects their lives, and how they can be part of shaping the future of their city. Mayor Johnson understands the importance of digital strategy, and I am excited to bring my experience in law, communications, and digital organizing to an administration focused on building a safer, more affordable and more equitable Chicago."
Johnson has had some turnover in his office throughout the last year.
Chicago Budget Director Annette Guzman resigned last month.
Former Chief Financial Officer Jill Jaworski left several months ago. Her acting replacement also stepped down, and the deputy chief financial officer left in June.
The administration has also lost its human resources commissioner, police superintendent and health commissioner this year.
Johnson previously downplayed concerns about the changes in personnel, saying such departures are common in government.
"Transitions happen all the time in administrations. But what's most constant is my presence," the mayor said.
Johnson said his administration remains focused on its goals despite the turnover.
"As long as the mission, the vision that I have put forward, is carried out and executed by the team that's around me, the city of Chicago will remain stable," Johnson said.
Johnson is expected to present his budget proposal in mid-to-late October, around the same time petitions are due for the mayoral race.
The video in the player above is from an earlier report.