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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 016-10
January 14, 2010

MAYOR BLOOMBERG ANNOUNCES COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR JAMES ANDERSON TO LEAVE CITY GOVERNMENT IN MARCH

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced that James B. Anderson, the Director of Communications, is stepping down from his post in March. Since being appointed in January 2006, Anderson has served as a senior advisor to the Mayor on communications and worked closely with mayoral agencies and the Mayor's press, policy, and government affairs offices to advance the Administration's policy and program agenda. During this time, Anderson also developed the City's blueprint for service, NYC Service, and conceived of Cities of Service, a coalition launched in September 2009 that now has 80 members nationwide. Anderson oversaw the Administration's communications strategy on many key priorities, including the successful campaign to reauthorize mayoral control of schools.  He also provided policy counsel to the mayor on issues ranging from education and social welfare to the City's response to the national economic downturn. In addition, Anderson served as the Administration's primary liaison to public policy organizations, editorial boards, magazines and columnists. Anderson has accepted an offer to oversee Bloomberg Philanthropies' domestic agenda and communications programs.  

"Jim has worked tirelessly to help me and our entire Administration shape and win public support for countless major initiatives that are now making a real difference in the lives of everyday New Yorkers," Mayor Bloomberg said. "His creativity, energy, and thoughtfulness have been critical to every area of our success, and the savvy communications advice he always gave me made him one of my most trusted advisors."

"Being a part of this Mayor's team at City Hall has been an extraordinary adventure and a great privilege," said Anderson. "I have never had as much fun working so hard, and I look forward to continue supporting the Mayor's extraordinary vision for innovative and accountable government that improves people's lives and strengthens communities."

Before coming to City Hall, Anderson served as Associate Commissioner for Communications and External Affairs for the New York City Department of Homeless Services. In that capacity he oversaw the media relations, legislative affairs, and community relations units, and served as senior policy advisor to then Commissioner Linda Gibbs. Prior to joining the Bloomberg Administration, Anderson served for four years as the Communications Director of the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network, a national nonprofit organization focused on ensuring safe schools for lesbian and gay students.







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser   (212) 788-2958




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