The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) has hired Alex Gilliland as External Affairs Coordinator to strengthen the organization’s outreach to California’s 58 counties. 

Gilliland will travel to counties throughout California, providing tailored support focusing on communication and media outreach. The new position will help connect the legislative work being done by CSAC‘s legislative team in Sacramento and the impacts of that legislation in communities across California as well as other important local issues to counties.

“I’m excited to provide on the ground support to counties and to work on substantive policy issues that are impacting California residents on a daily basis,” Gilliland said. “I’m eager to get into our counties and work with supervisors and staff to provide updates, listen to concerns and priorities, as well as help increase awareness about the critical services county governments provide.”

“A priority of CSAC is to spend more time in our counties to connect directly with our members and their communities. Alex will be a resource who can work directly with our counties on everything from providing updates, promoting best practices and even delivering communications support in the event of a crisis or natural disaster,” CSAC Executive Director Matt Cate said. “Her background and experience in communications and public policy make her an excellent fit as an External Affairs Coordinator. We’re excited about the possibilities for this new position, which will strengthen communication and collaboration between CSAC and all 58 counties.”

Gilliland served as communications director to two members of Congress on Capitol Hill. She has also run local and national communications campaigns for non-profits, coalitions and state-based organizations. Prior to working in politics, she was a TV news producer for ABC, NBC, and FOX stations throughout California and Washington, D.C. She has a master’s degree in public policy and is a California native.

Alex Gilliland can be reached at (916) 327-7500, ext. 540; email: agilliland@counties.org.

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