Mayor John Cooper announced the expansion of his communications team, which is tasked with keeping the public informed about the priorities and work of the Mayor’s Office and Metro Davidson County government.

Brandon Marshall, who has served as Digital Director and LGBTQ Liaison in the Mayor’s Office since October 2019, will now serve in the newly created position of Deputy Communications Director and LGBTQ liaison. Marshall will continue to oversee digital strategy—and will take on expanded responsibilities on the communications team, including serving as a spokesperson for Mayor Cooper, running point on key initiatives, and working closely with department public information officers on supporting their strategic communication priorities. In addition to his communications role, Marshall will lead the mayor’s office outreach and engagement on key issues impacting the LGBTQ Community. Prior to joining the Mayor’s Office, Marshall was a television news reporter for WTVF Channel 5 in Nashville and before that, KWTX News 10 in Waco, Texas.

Chris Echegaray joins the Mayor’s Office as the head speechwriter and communications advisor. Previously, Echegaray worked at from Metro Nashville Public Schools where he led communications, strategic planning, and community and family engagement at Whitsitt Elementary School, a predominantly Hispanic urban school with 93% low-income students. Echegaray has previously published writing on immigration, race, and justice issues for Harvard University, and led the content creation strategy for the launch of Vanderbilt University’s Clinical and Translational Science Awards Consortium. Earlier in his career, Echegaray was a reporter for The Tennessean and The Tampa Tribune for over seven years, covering a wide range of issues including immigration, education, health, business, courts, and other social issues affecting the community.

“Brandon has been an essential member of our team from the moment he walked in the door, bringing his signature creativity, charm, and intellect to every task and playing a critical role in many of our office’s accomplishments,” said Mayor Cooper. “I’m excited to recognize his hard work and dedication, and grateful he will be taking on new responsibilities and leadership on the communications team. I’m also pleased to welcome Chris to the office, who has already proven to be a skilled writer and impressive communicator in the short time we’ve worked together.”

Both Marshall and Echegaray will report to T.J. Ducklo, chief communications officer and senior advisor to the mayor, who joined the Administration in late April.

“Brandon and Chris are both incredibly talented at what they do and we’re lucky to have their help communicating Mayor Cooper’s priorities and agenda for neighborhoods and families to residents across the city,” said Ducklo. “I’m thrilled to welcome Chris to the team and see Brandon grow in his role, and proud to call them both colleagues.”