MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Liz Dowe Filmore will replace Jo Bonner as Gov. Kay Ivey’s chief of staff, becoming the first female to hold the position in Alabama, Ivey’s office said Monday.
Filmore, previously the top deputy in the position, has been an advisor to Ivey since 2013, when she worked on Ivey’s re-election campaign for lieutenant governor.
“Loyalty and integrity are two of the most important qualifications needed to be an effective chief of staff,” Ivey said in a statement. “Liz possesses both of these qualities and more. I am proud she has agreed to take on the critical responsibilities that accompany this position.”
Fillmore thanked Ivey for placing confidence in her to assume the top staff job.
“I am very honored and extremely humbled Governor Ivey has decided to appoint me as her next chief of staff. It is a responsibility I will take very seriously, and I look forward to working every day to build on the successes Governor Ivey has already accomplished for the citizens of Alabama,” Fillmore told Alabama Daily News.
“Jo Bonner has been a joy to work with and learn from over the last few years. He will be greatly missed but we are confident he will continue to benefit our state in his new role.”
Bonner, who previously represented southwest Alabama in Congress, was selected as the next president of the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Bonner will remain on Ivey’s staff through the end of the year.