Cox Communications executive Nneka Chiazor has been selected to serve as the next President of the Public Affairs Council.

She will officially step into the role on January 2, 2025, succeeding Doug Pinkham, who will be retiring after a remarkable 27-year tenure at the helm of the global group dedicated to the public affairs profession.

“On behalf of the Selection Committee and the broader Board of Directors, I’m excited to welcome Nneka as the Council’s next President,” said Roi Ewell, Board Chair of the Council and Principal of Ewell Associates.  “Nneka’s selection comes at a unique time in the Council’s growth.  Her extensive corporate experience coupled with her broad public affairs background are the right mix for the next chapter in the Council’s history. Her proven leadership will help the Council engage beyond the public affairs community and demonstrate the value of the function to the business world.”

Chiazor currently serves as the market vice president at Cox Communications. She will bring more than two decades of experience in communications and public affairs to her new role. During her tenure at Cox, Chiazor has led a multimillion-dollar operation with over 1,200 employees representing one of the company’s top five markets, fostering a culture to drive positive business outcomes and excellence. Prior to being promoted in this business leadership role, she also served as vice president of government and public affairs at the company. Before joining Cox, Chiazor spent 14 years at Verizon Communications, where she held several leadership roles, including vice president of public policy. Chiazor was a member of the Council’s Board of Directors from 2018 to 2023.

“It is a deep honor to assume this role and build upon the principal vision of the Council to bridge the gap between business and government through mutual understanding and collaboration,” said Chaizor

Read the full press release.