Kristen Key is a communications specialist for Mayor John Peyton’s office. She was appointed to her position by the mayor in July when his administration took over.
WHAT ROLE DOES SHE PLAY?
“I help the mayor with talking points and speeches for all kinds of events. I keep track of all the photo archives and our press coverage archives, so I read all the print publications every day.” On occasion she answers requests from consituents who request information.
WHAT ABOUT DEALING WITH THE PRESS?
“On the media side, I help Heather [Murphy, Peyton’s press secretary] out with media inquiries, press conferences — anything from setting up, to making sure everyone has what they need and ensuring that the camera’s at the right place at the right time. On a regular basis, I interact with the communications team — equally with Heather and Susie Wiles [the mayor’s chief of communication] — depending on the project we’re working on.”
IN THE KNOW
“Through some folks I knew at Gate, they introduced me to Peyton. That was in April 2002. I got on his campaign as a volunteer and helped out here and there. In June I went full-time as his scheduler. It was an interesting way to jump right in, feet first, and an incredible learning experience.”
WHAT WAS YOUR GREATEST LESSON?
“A lot of people find politics to be confusing, but really it’s just learning to deal with people’s feelings and thoughts on different issues and how they affect their daily lives. What we’re here to do is make people’s lives better and help the City run more efficiently. That’s the rewarding part, knowing you’re doing something good for a whole lot of people throughout the City.”
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
“Getting to meet the different people that come in here, from the everyday people to the head honchos. I love working with the mayor. He’s very inspiring and his boundless energy amazes me.”
LUCKY BREAK
Key started as the mayor’s executive assistant. “I was hoping something would come open in communications because that’s what I was really focused on. It just so happened that it worked out that way. The transition has been from being right at the mayor’s side to being backstage a bit.”
WHAT IS MOST CHALLENGING FOR YOU?
“Getting to know how the City works. It’s been challenging figuring out everyone’s role.”
WHERE DID SHE GO TO COLLEGE?
Key is a graduate from the University of Florida with a degree in public relations and a minor in sociology.
HOMETOWN
Clearwater.
WHY MAKE JACKSONVILLE HOME?
“Originally, it was because this is a familiar place. Most of my family has lived here all their lives. I knew the environment and the people. I’ve really found my niche here.”
WHERE DOES SHE LIVE?
11E is where Key hangs her hat. As a downtown resident, she enjoys jogging over the bridges, having lunch in Hemming Plaza and stopping by London Bridge pub for a drink. She also likes “Sex in the City,” romantic comedies and making pottery or jewelry.
—by Monica Tsai