Michelle Snyder, chief of staff for City Councilor Mike Ross.
Michelle Snyder, who previously served as director of constituent relations for City Councilor Mike Ross, was recently promoted to chief of staff.
“The people of Back Bay, Beacon Hill and the West End know well know how great Michelle is and what an amazing resource she is for the community,” Ross said. “I believe in promoting from within, and I’ve continued to watch and admire the progress Michelle has made professionally.”
Snyder joined Ross’ staff as a Northeastern University undergraduate in January 2007 as part of a “co-op,” or cooperative education program. She continued working full time for the councilor while finishing school before she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science in December 2008, at which time Ross hired her to handle his calendar. Snyder was named director of constituent relations in July 2009 after her predecessor, Karin Mathiesen, left the position to attend law school.
In her new role, Snyder will assume additional duties, including developing policy initiatives with citywide effect and managing day-to-day activities.
“Good public policy can have a positive effect for everyone, whether they have contacted us or not,” Snyder said.
Snyder will also still serve as director of constituent relations until her successor is named, as well as assist Ross in finding a suitable replacement for the position.
“Ideally, we’d like to find some A.S.A.P., but Mike really believes in finding the very best candidate for the job,” Snyder said.
As a native of suburban Philadelphia, Snyder said working in Ross’ office has helped her truly make Boston home.
“I love local politics,” Snyder said. “It has given me the opportunity to meet a lot of people I wouldn’t have otherwise known as a college student…and allowed me to go into the neighborhoods and form friendships with people in those districts.”
Snyder replaces George Greenidge, who left the chief of staff role to return to the non-profit sector.