Becca Bycott Hired as VP of Strategic Partnerships, Ann Cothran promoted to Director of Executive Affairs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Public Affairs Council today announced the appointment of Becca Bycott as Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and the promotion of Ann Cothran, CAE, to Director of Executive Affairs, strengthening the organization’s leadership team as it continues to advance its mission and global impact.

Becca Bycott joins the Council as Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, where she will lead efforts to deepen and expand strategic relationships that support the Council’s long-term growth, innovation, and value to members. Bycott brings extensive experience in building high-impact partnerships, cultivating senior executive communities, and advancing thought leadership across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Most recently, she served as Head of Partnerships at the Milken Institute’s Center for Advancing the American Dream, where she designed and launched engagement strategies for educational partners, donors, and founding members and supported major global convenings. She previously held senior leadership roles at FiscalNote, where she scaled executive membership communities and stewarded cross-sector partnerships with leading policy and business organizations.

Ann Cothran was promoted to Director of Executive Affairs after serving as Senior Manager, Membership, at the Public Affairs Council. In her new role, she will support the President & CEO and strengthen coordination across executive operations, governance, and Board engagement. Cothran brings nearly 20 years of association management experience, with a strong background in executive support, membership strategy, and stakeholder engagement. Prior to joining the Council, she held roles at the American Hotel & Lodging Association, American Cleaning Institute and U.S. Travel Association, where she supported senior executives, managed complex member portfolios, and advanced operational effectiveness. She holds the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, reflecting her commitment to excellence in association leadership and governance.

“Every leadership decision we make is grounded in serving our members,” said Nneka Chiazor, President and CEO of the Public Affairs Council.“ Becca brings deep expertise in building partnerships that expand opportunity and deliver tangible value for our members, and Ann’s promotion reflects her proven commitment to operational excellence and a member-first mindset. I’m pleased to welcome Becca and congratulate Ann on her well-earned promotion.”

About the Public Affairs Council

Both nonpartisan and nonpolitical, the Public Affairs Council is the leading global association for public affairs professionals. The Council’s mission is to advance the field of public affairs and to provide its 750 member companies, nonprofits and universities with the executive education and expertise they need while maintaining the highest ethical standards. Learn more at pac.org.