Chicago (January 5, 2021) — Culloton + Bauer Luce today announced Anel Ruiz has joined the public affairs and crisis management firm as Senior Vice President after completing her tenure as Press Secretary to Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot.  

“Anel is a battle tested strategist. With her roles at the highest levels of city and county government, Anel brings a versatility and firsthand viewpoint that will be invaluable to our clients as they navigate the increasingly complex media, political and business climates,” said Dennis Culloton, CEO of Culloton + Bauer Luce. 

“Anel’s hands-on experience in policymaking and her sense of how fast an issue can take shape in today’s digital-first environment makes for a uniquely skilled counselor,”  said Natalie Bauer Luce, CBL partner and executive vice president. “I expect she will hit the ground running in this new role.”

Earlier, Ruiz served as public affairs director for the Chicago Department of Public Health, which will greatly benefit CBL’s clientele as they adapt in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for the firm’s growing portfolio of healthcare providers.

Ruiz will also be adept at advising CBL’s clients in issues management, having overseen policy development as deputy chief of staff for Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. At the County, Ruiz also managed the Bureau of Economic Development, Justice Advisory Council, Commission on Human Rights & Ethics, as well as the Commission on Women’s Issues. 

“I am delighted to be joining the team at CBL. Dennis, Natalie, and the entire firm have designed a unique approach that is both strong and agile, ensuring that our clients are consistently positioned to play to their strengths in any situation,” Ruiz said. “I look forward to bringing my skills, experience, and quick-yet-nuanced style to the team and working with our clients not only to solve today’s problems, but also to lay the groundwork for their vision for tomorrow.”

In addition to her public service, Ruiz honed her operations and fundraising skills in the nonprofit sector at Free Spirit Media and the National Museum of Mexican Art.

Ruiz received her undergraduate degree in political science from Augustana College. She is a 2014 Leadership Greater Chicago Fellow and a 2016 Civic Leadership Academy Fellow.