Premier McNeil announces two new staff appointments

Premier Stephen McNeil. (Communications N.S. photo)

EAST HANTS: A former East Hants resident is one of two new appointments announced by Premier Stephen McNeil on Oct. 21.

Premier McNeil announced the appointments of David Jackson as director of communications and Kristina Shannon as press secretary.

Mr. Jackson has been with the Office of the Premier since February 2016, as senior media relations advisor, and has been responsible for managing the premier’s media relations and providing strategic communications advice. Prior to that, he spent more than two decades as a print journalist and online editor in Halifax.

Ms. Shannon has been with the office since February 2017, as communications advisor. She handled the premier’s media relations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring.

The premier’s current communications director, Laurel Munroe, has accepted a position at Dalhousie University as director of communications and public relations.

“I want to congratulate Laurel as she moves on to a new challenge and thank her for her years of service and contributions to our province,” said Premier McNeil. “I also welcome David and Kristina to their new positions and I look forward to continuing to work with them over the coming months.”

Ms. Munroe’s last day in the Premier’s Office was Oct. 23. Mr. Jackson’s and Ms. Shannon’s appointments take effect that day.