FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Danielle Inez 

                                                                                                            Chief of Staff

                                                                                                            Office:  901.222.2018

MAYOR LEE HARRIS ANNOUNCES NEW PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER AND SENIOR STAFF CHANGES

MEMPHIS, TN – Today, Mayor Lee Harris announced the promotion of two staff members and a new public information officer. Frankie Dakin has been promoted to serve as Special Assistant to the Mayor-Community Affairs after previously working in the Division of Public Works as a public outreach liaison. Additionally, Dakin served as the youngest elected Alderman in Millington, TN prior to joining Shelby County Government. Mayor Harris’ former constituent services coordinator Alex Hensley will now assist with legislative affairs as Special Assistant to Mayor Harris. Her background includes advocacy work in support of working families in Shreveport, LA and Memphis. 

“It’s been about two years since my first day in office, and one thing has remained consistent since I took my oath. Our efforts on behalf of the public are only as impactful as the people doing the work. In Frankie, we have an experienced public servant who values relationships and ensures that resident concerns are heard and addressed,” said Mayor Lee Harris. “Ms. Hensley has dedicated the last two years to supporting our unions, leading our criminal justice reform efforts, and fighting for better transit. She’s got her ear to the streets and knows how to build a coalition around issues relevant to everyday residents.”

“Mayor Harris has assembled an administration that is committed to putting our community’s interests first,” said Frankie Dakin. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve alongside such a talented, dedicated team of public servants.”

“It is an honor to work alongside compassionate public servants across Shelby County Government, Elected Officials, and the Mayor’s Office Team,” said Alex Hensley. “I am grateful to serve as Mayor Harris’ Special Assistant and to drive real change to improve the quality of life for Shelby County residents, with an eye towards marginalized communities.”

Mayor Harris has selected Candice Grose as the county’s next Public Information Officer. Grose joins the Administration after nearly a decade of accelerated communications experience, supporting brands like the Achievement School District, the City of Memphis, Thyssenkrupp, the Democratic National Committee, and American Airlines. 

“Candice brings a diverse set of experiences that lends to big ideas for how we engage the public in the work Shelby County Government does to impact lives for the better. Under her leadership, I have confidence that we can drive meaningful debate around issues that matter.”

“I am honored for the opportunity to work with Mayor Harris and his administration, and excited to bring innovative strategies on how we tell Shelby County’s story, engage with the public, and maintain media relations,” said Candice Grose.

(end of release)