New Hanover County Manager Chris Coudriet announced the final change in the recent reorganization of the New Hanover County executive leadership team, appointing Ruth Ravitz Smith as chief communications officer.
Coudriet recently announced that the executive leadership changes were made in an effort to “accelerate decision making and enhance strategic focus,” including promoting Avril Pender as deputy county manager.
Read related story: New Hanover County manager makes executive level changes
Smith’s previous background in communications includes organizations such as General Electric, Alstom, The Travelers and The Aerospace Industries Association. She most recently owned a consulting business, RRSmith Global Solutions, LLC.
Locally, Smith served on the leadership team at GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy at the company’s complex on Castle Hayne Road.
“Serving in this position will enable me to play a key role in promoting the value of living and working in New Hanover County to residents, businesses and other stakeholders,” said Smith. “It is an honor to be selected to serve the people of New Hanover County and to help promote this community that I love so dearly. I am delighted to now be able to call New Hanover County my permanent home.”
Before the county office reorganization, the position was formerly known as the public and legislative affairs director, temporarily filled by Mark Boyer. Smith will assume the role of chief communications officer on Sept. 1.
“Ruth represents the county ideal of hiring only the best and the brightest who are committed to public service,” Coudriet said. “In fact, every resident and taxpayer of this community deserves nothing less than those committed to working on their behalf.
“Ruth brings a great mix of public and private sector leadership in communicating the efficacy of large, complex organizations. I look forward to working with Ruth and the entire Executive Leadership Team to advance effectively and efficiently the policy choices of the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners.”
James Mieczkowski is a news reporter for Port City Daily. He can be reached at james.m@portcitydaily.com On Twitter: @mieczkowskiPCD
