Premier Stephen McNeil has appointed two experienced staff members to positions in his office.

Kristan Hines is the premier’s new chief of staff. She had served as director of strategic operations since October 2013.

“Ms. Hines has shown great leadership and has an excellent grasp of the issues and challenges facing Nova Scotians,” said Premier McNeil. “She is one of my most trusted advisors and I’m fortunate that she’s accepted this position.”

Prior to joining the Premier’s Office, Ms. Hines was the director of outreach in the official Opposition caucus office and executive assistant to Mr. McNeil while he was Opposition leader. She has more than 10 years experience advising elected officials at the provincial and federal levels.

Premier McNeil has also appointed Ryan Grant as the deputy chief of staff. He has worked in the Premier’s Office as a senior policy advisor and strategic initiatives analyst.

“Mr. Grant has made invaluable contributions to our team with his superior knowledge of the inner workings of government and policy implementation,” the premier said. “I look forward to his contributions in this expanded role.”

The appointments are effective today, March 7.

Premier McNeil said he will be making a further staff announcement in the near future.

Source: Release