Stacy Richardson
Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke announced on Friday that Stacy Richardson will serve as chief of staff (COS) in the office of the mayor. Ms. Richardson began serving as interim COS in late August, when a leave of absence was taken by Travis McDonough. Prior to that, Ms. Richardson served as chief policy officer and senior advisor to the mayor.
“Stacy has a thorough understanding of the policies that make citizens’ lives better and drive our City forward.
This knowledge, coupled with strong leadership skills and an unparalleled commitment to community service, make Stacy the obvious choice for this role,” said Mayor Berke.
Over the last few years, Ms. Richardson has worked alongside numerous public and private partners to help implement several key mayoral initiatives, including growing Chattanooga’s innovation and technology economy through the Innovation District, ensuring families have the opportunity to succeed through Baby University, and coordinating the work and policy directives of the mayor’s Council for Women. In addition, Ms. Richardson played a key role in the implementation of Budgeting for Outcomes citywide as well as making open data and open government a priority at the city of Chattanooga.
“I have seen Stacy in action over the years and I am confident she will excel in her new position” said Chattanooga City Council Chairwoman Dr. Carol Berz. “She possesses the values, exhibits the work ethic, and has the talent and ability to be an outstanding leader. I look forward to continuing to partner with her and the Berke administration as we work to improve the lives of Chattanoogans.”
A native Chattanoogan, Ms. Richardson graduated with both departmental and university honors from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Her background is in both politics and policy -- serving as the campaign manager for the Berke for Mayor Campaign and as a research fellow at the Ochs Center for Metropolitan Studies.
Officials said Ms. Richardson will make $110,000. Mr. McDonough, who has been nominated for federal judge, was paid $128,000.