Published on November 22, 2023
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther today announced Elon Simms will serve as his next chief of staff. Simms will succeed Ken Paul who, earlier this month, was named executive director of the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority. The transition will occur in early 2024.
“I am thrilled Elon has accepted the call to service,” said Mayor Ginther. “Elon brings a breadth of public and not-for-profit leadership experience, strong community-focused relationships and a contagious energy that will position him well to lead my cabinet and advance our Equity Agenda.”
Simms is currently vice president of community impact for Crane Group, where he works closely with nonprofits as well as civic and business leaders to understand community needs and how Crane Group can address them through strategic partnerships and philanthropic endeavors. At Crane Group, Simms has led effective and creative initiatives to reduce inequities across the community and worked alongside Crane’s investment team on a social impact investment strategy aligning community engagement with Crane’s broader business strategy. He previously served as director of community affairs in the Mayor’s Office where he engaged numerous stakeholders, built relationships, and developed and implemented initiatives to advance the mayor’s commitment to neighborhoods. Simms previously served in roles at Franklin County Children Services and The Ohio State University, where he also earned a Master of Social Work.
“I care deeply about this city and the people in it. It is truly an honor and privilege to serve in this role and to apply my experience and the relationships forged over the course of my career to help solve some of our community’s greatest challenges,” said Simms. “Columbus is in the midst of unprecedented growth, and I look forward to serving alongside the mayor and leading a team committed to ensuring that growth is equitable and inclusive.”