Gov. Kay Ivey appointed two deputy chiefs of staff Wednesday as she prepares to begin her first full term as governor. In addition to naming two chiefs of staff, which is relatively uncommon, Ivey also made other changes to her top staff.
“As the governor moves forward in implementing her vision for the state, she believes these changes to her staff will be crucial to most effectively serve the people of Alabama,” the governor’s office said in a release.
Adam Thompson is being promoted to deputy chief of staff for policy, joining Liz Filmore, who is serving as deputy chief of staff for administration. The governor’s office said having two deputy chiefs of staff will help to improve organization, structure and focus among the staff.
Thompson is currently the governor’s appointments director, having managed her political and bureaucratic appointments. In Thompson’s new capacity, his experience will be beneficial to the governor in executing her policy and legislative agendas. Both deputies will report to chief of staff Steve Pelham.
“Alabama is experiencing great momentum, and in my full term as governor, I plan to be ambitious in growing on our successes and tackling our challenges. My recent appointment of Jo Bonner to Senior Advisor, in addition to these staff changes, will be instrumental to best execute my vision for Alabama,” Ivey said. “Everything we do in the Ivey Administration is a team effort, and I am very proud of that.”
Catherine Gayle Thrash is being promoted to serve as director of appointments. Thrash is currently the governor’s confidential assistant. Thrash managed judicial appointments and will continue to do so along with managing all of the governor’s appointments.
William Filmore, who currently serves as legislative liaison, will now take the additional role of director of local government relations. In addition to his current responsibilities, Filmore will be the governor’s liaison to cities and counties.
“Adam, Liz, Catherine Gayle and William are valuable assets to my staff, and I look forward to continue working alongside them to better serve the state of Alabama,” Ivey said.
These appointments are effective Dec. 16, 2018.
