Delaware governor announces changes to staff leadership

By Joseph Edelen
Posted 7/13/22

After some workforce turnover in recent months, Gov. John Carney announced additional changes to his office staff Wednesday.

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Delaware governor announces changes to staff leadership

Posted

After some workforce turnover in recent months, Gov. John Carney announced additional changes to his office staff Wednesday.

The governor announced that chief of staff Sheila Grant, who has held her position since 2019, will be leaving in August to become a special assistant to the president and senior presidential speechwriter at the White House.

From 2011-19, Ms. Grant served as Gov. Carney’s deputy chief of staff and chief of staff in the governor’s congressional office, as well as his primary speechwriter.

Replacing Ms. Grant will be Jonathan Starkey, who left his position as deputy chief of staff for communications in April after accepting a job as director of corporate communications with Sallie Mae, a private, Newark-based company that offers student loans. Mr. Starkey is returning to the Office of the Governor after five previous years with Gov. Carney.

“Sheila’s judgment, leadership skills and work ethic were critical to helping us get through an unprecedented period for our state and country,” Gov. Carney said. “She has helped guide our administration’s efforts since day one and, before that, led our team in Congress. Sheila’s impact on our work ... can’t be overstated, and she won’t be easily replaced.

“I am grateful for Jon’s willingness to step up and take on this challenge. I’m confident he’ll be a strong and effective leader of our team.”

Additionally, Albert Shields, who has served as deputy chief of staff for policy for nearly six years, will also depart from the governor’s office in August to serve as the University of Delaware’s director of business and economic development.

Lastly, Gov. Carney’s director of digital government and senior adviser, Jessica Borcky Weinberg, who has been with the office since 2014, will become the deputy chief of staff.

“I’ve worked with Albert for almost my entire career as an elected official,” said Gov. Carney. “I trust and respect him immensely, and the same is true for everyone who interacts with him. He is smart, thorough and calm under pressure. I am incredibly thankful that he dedicated so much of his career to helping me serve the people of our state.

“Jess has also been a critical part of our team for years. She is an extremely hard worker who gets things done and keeps things running smoothly. Jess’ organizational abilities and focused approach will help ensure we continue to make progress on the issues facing our state.”

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