Christopher Ave named city’s new communications director

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Christopher Ave will start a new role later this month.

The Director of the University of Missouri’s media relations and public affairs will become the City of Columbia’s communication director on June 22, the city announced in a Monday press release.

Ave was one of three finalists announced by the city last month and will make $150,000 per year in his new role, the city confirmed with ABC 17 News. The city hired a firm for $28,000 to find its new director after Sydney Olsen left earlier this year for a similar position at Central Bank, previous reporting shows.

The other two finalists for the role included Rob Jones and Shayne Martin. The city held an event last month for residents to meet the finalists.

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to lead communications and engagement efforts for the world-class city of Columbia," Ave was quoted in the city’s press release.

He has more than 30 years of experience working in journalism and strategic communications, the release says. Ave has also worked as the director of communications with the St. Louis County Department of Public Health and was previously an editor at The St. Louis Post Dispatch, the release says. He has a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, according to the release.

"Christopher’s extensive experience in journalism and strategic communications makes him an outstanding addition to our team," City Manager De’Carlon Seewood was quoted in the release. "We are excited to welcome him to the City and look forward to his leadership in strengthening communication and engagement with our community."