TALLAHASSEE - Today, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Jesse Panuccio announced that Erin Gillespie has been selected as Director of Communications and External Affairs.

Director Panuccio said, “We are delighted to welcome Erin to DEO. Her deep knowledge of state government, as well as her background as a reporter, will help DEO communicate effectively with the public about the policies and programs helping to foster Florida’s nation-leading economic growth.”  

Gillespie most recently served as the press secretary for Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Previously, she was the statewide press secretary for the Florida Department of Children and Families. A former newspaper reporter, Gillespie holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Spanish and a master’s degree in Hispanic Studies, both from Auburn University.

Gillespie will begin her new role on Monday, June 15.