SKDK has appointed Patrick Brennan as Principal in its public affairs practice.Brennan brings experience across government, philanthropy and the corporate sector. He has previously served as Chief Operating Officer at The Rockefeller Foundation and as Vice President at Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, where he led executive communications and corporate social responsibility.He most recently worked as an independent consultant, advising clients including professional sports leagues, universities and foundations on strategic communications, operations and stakeholder engagement.Earlier in his career, Brennan worked with Michael Bloomberg as a Senior Advisor to his mayoral campaigns. He also held roles at New York City Hall, including Chief of Staff for Government Affairs and Communications and Commissioner of the Community Assistance Unit.He began his career in politics as a campaign aide on Chuck Schumer’s first Senate campaign and later worked on political campaigns at the local, state and federal levels, including roles with Service Employees International Union and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.The appointment strengthens SKDK’s public affairs capabilities as the firm continues to expand its advisory services.

Communications firm SKDK has elevated Jasmine Hooks to COO. In this new role, she will be overseeing the agency's daily operations.Jasmine Hooks, who has served as SKDK's deputy COO since 2021, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. In her previous role, she spearheaded initiatives in HR policy development, contract management, internal communications, employee relations, and talent acquisition. She takes over for Jacqui Newman, who is departing SKDK to pursue a new opportunity.?Ç£Jasmine's expertise and leadership have been invaluable to SKDK. Today, as we announce her promotion to the role of COO, we are deeply honoured to welcome her to the leadership team. In doing so, Jasmine becomes one of the few women of colour to helm operations at a major communications firm, a milestone we celebrate with pride,?Ç¥ said Doug Thornell.Prior to her tenure at SKDK, Hooks functioned as the Chief Operating Officer within the administration of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. In this role, she oversaw the state's efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, crafted an inclusive framework for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and implemented numerous policies and protocols statewide. Additionally, Hooks played pivotal roles in various capacities during the Pritzker campaign. A native of Chicago, she is an alumna of Marquette University.?Ç£I am deeply honoured to step into the COO role and immensely grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me during this new era at SKDK. I am energized by the opportunity to provide hands-on leadership in all operational facets, ensuring we continue to always put our best forward?Çöfor our staff, those clients that rely on us, and all of our external partners,?Ç¥ said Jasmine Hooks.  SKDK has offices in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, New York City, California, etc.