WASHINGTON – Today, DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz announced the senior leadership team for the 2016 Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC).  The strong team assembled brings decades of both Convention and professional political experience, ensuring that the Convention in Philadelphia will be the best to date.

“Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy, rich in history and tradition, and we could not be more thrilled to bring the 2016 Democratic National Convention to that great city to nominate the next President of the United States” said Wasserman Schultz.

“The team we have put together showcases the diversity and talent of the Democratic Party, and they will work closely with our partners in Philadelphia to create an impactful event for the American people. This Convention is our opportunity to highlight what Democrats have accomplished through President Obama’s leadership and to share our vision for the future by nominating the 45th President of the United States.” 

In addition to previously announced Convention Chief Executive Officer, the Reverend Leah Daughtry, the DNC announced the following appointments:

2016 CONVENTION SENIOR LEADERSHIP

Matthew Butler, former CEO for Media Matters for America, will be the DNCC’s Chief of Staff. Butler brings two decades of non-profit, campaign, and consulting experience to the Convention team.

Zoe Garmendia will join as the Deputy CEO for Logistics, with a vast background in the operations of Presidential Nominating Conventions and Presidential Inaugural Committees, serving in numerous capacities during the last five election cycles.  From 2009 to 2011, Zoe also served as Chief of Operations for the Office of Administration in the Executive Office of the President.

Travis Dredd has been selected as Deputy CEO for Convention Complex Management. Dredd, a Marine Corps veteran, served in leadership positions on behalf of the Executive Office of the President, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the last four Democratic Conventions, including his role as Convention chief of staff in 2012.

April Mellody will be Deputy CEO for Communications. She comes to the DNCC from the position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). She brings extensive political, campaign and communications experience to the role, including work on several prior Democratic Conventions, in the private sector, for the 2010 Pennsylvania U.S. Senate race and as a spokesperson in the Clinton White House.

Brian Bond, Deputy CEO for Public Engagement, will join the DNCC team in September. Bond served as Deputy Director for the White House Office of Public Engagement from 2009-2011.  He has also served in numerous leadership roles at the DNC.

Andrew Binns will serve as Chief Innovation Officer. He brings over 12 years of innovative technology management and leadership to the DNCC. This is Binns' fourth Convention after having served as Chief Information Officer for the Charlotte 2012 Convention.