Cheriogotis Unveils New City Leadership Team, Emphasizing Continuity and Strategic Restructuring

Mobile, AL (BuzzReport) – Mayor Spiro G. Cheriogotis has officially announced the lineup of his administrative cabinet, a team comprised of seasoned professionals and dedicated civil servants tasked with steering the City of Mobile. The newly formed group represents a deliberate fusion of continuity, retaining key figures from the previous administration, and a fresh organizational approach designed to enhance efficiency and direct oversight.

While many department heads and executive directors will continue in their established roles, signifying a commitment to sustained progress and leveraging existing expertise, Mayor Cheriogotis has opted for a departure from the traditional Chief of Staff position. Instead, he has implemented a direct reporting structure, designating eight cabinet members who will each champion major facets of the city’s operations. This restructured leadership model is intended to provide the Mayor with comprehensive visibility across all city departments, fostering a more cohesive and responsive administration.

The collective experience of this cabinet aims to directly support Mayor Cheriogotis’ core platform objectives: bolstering public safety, fostering economic growth and development, optimizing the delivery of city services, and elevating the overall quality of life for Mobile’s residents.

Cory Adair steps into the role of Senior Advisor and Director of Civic and Cultural Affairs. A strategist with a background in local and statewide political operations, Adair brings extensive knowledge of public policy. His responsibilities will extend to advising the Mayor directly and overseeing the city’s cultural institutions, including its museums and various city-appointed boards.

James Barber assumes the position of Chief of Operations. A decorated veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a 28-year veteran of the Mobile Police Department, Barber’s distinguished career included serving as Chief of Police and Public Safety Director before his tenure as Chief of Staff to former Mayor Sandy Stimpson. In his new capacity, he will direct the Public Works, Finance, and Engineering and Infrastructure departments.

Shayla Beaco will serve as Chief of Building and Planning. With over a quarter-century of experience in urban planning and community development, Beaco previously led Build Mobile, an organization focused on planning, historic development, building inspections, and zoning. Her continued leadership will be instrumental in refining processes that support the thriving of Mobile’s businesses and neighborhoods.

Keysha Brown takes on the role of Executive Liaison to the City Council. Leveraging her experience, Brown is tasked with strengthening the collaborative relationship and strategic alignment between the Mayor’s Office and the City Council, underscoring a commitment to excellence and progress across all seven City Council districts.

Candace Cooksey is appointed Executive Director of Public Affairs. A professional with nearly two decades of experience in communications and government relations, Cooksey has been a key figure in the City of Mobile since 2020, previously serving as Director of Communications and Governmental Affairs and as a Senior Political Advisor to Mayor Stimpson.

Curtis L. Graves will lead as Executive Director of Public Safety. A recognized leader in public safety with over a decade in law enforcement, Graves has garnered statewide accolades for his innovative approaches to policing, emphasizing trauma-informed practices and prevention. His focus remains on enhancing safety and fostering community partnerships.

Capt. Joseph H. Snowden (Ret.) is named Chief of Administrative Services. A 32-year veteran of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Coast Guard, Capt. Snowden brings extensive leadership experience to his role, which he has overseen since 2020. His purview includes the Mobile Cruise Terminal, Risk Management, Animal Services, Human Resources, and Information Technology.

Ricardo Woods continues as City Attorney. As managing partner at Burr Forman LLP, Woods possesses over 20 years of legal practice in Mobile and more than a decade of experience representing public sector entities, including the City of Mobile itself.

The formation of this cabinet reflects a strategic approach to governance. While maintaining the expertise of many individuals who contributed to Mobile’s recent growth, Mayor Cheriogotis has introduced structural adjustments and integrated new leadership to ensure a clear line of command and comprehensive oversight of city operations. This team is poised to drive forward the administration’s agenda with a blend of established experience and a renewed organizational framework.

Many promises kept to keep a status quo administration, however add a couple of new faces. Yes, Spiro changed position titles, however the agenda seems to remain the same.