CSAC Names Brian Ferguson Director of Public Affairs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2024
Contact: Rachael Serrao, rserrao@counties.org
Working to build capacity and amplify the voice of counties in California’s public policy forums, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) today announced the hiring of Brian Ferguson as the organization’s new Director of Public Affairs.
Ferguson brings nearly two decades of communication and campaign experience to role including serving as the state’s communication lead on natural disasters as well working as a spokesperson for the last two California governors.
“CSAC is committed to building a best in class communication operation to elevate the voice of counties and our communities,” said CSAC Chief Executive Officer Graham Knaus. “Brian brings a broad background in communications, media and issues management that will serve CSAC well.”
Prior to joining CSAC Ferguson served as Deputy Director of Crisis Communication at the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. In this position, he worked very closely with CSAC and California county officials on public communication efforts during a myriad of disasters that disproportionately impact local governments including: record wildfires, historic drought, statewide-flooding, energy instability and a generational pandemic.
Ferguson also oversaw the implementation of over $100 million in education and outreach efforts that required close collaboration with county governments to provide awareness and outreach materials to vulnerable community members. Previously, Ferguson served as Deputy Director of Media and Public Affairs in the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom and as Deputy Press Secretary in the Office of Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr.
The hiring is part of a broader CSAC effort to more proactively communicate on-the-ground challenges and opportunities while advocating for the needs of California counties at the state and federal level.
CSAC serves as the effective advocate and unified voice of California’s 58 counties. The Association represents county government before the California Legislature, administrative agencies, and the federal government to advocate for policies that benefit local communities and address challenges ranging from public health to infrastructure. CSAC plays a crucial role in strengthening county governance and ensuring they have the necessary authority, resources, and flexibility to advance the well-being of California’s communities.
