A senior adviser to the Hillary Clinton campaign for president and a nearly three-decade veteran of public policy work at the state, federal and local levels was appointed chief of staff by Denver Mayor Michael Hancock Wednesday, Oct. 12.

Alan Salazar will play a key role in managing the daily operations of the mayor’s office and the city’s 26 departments, as well as the overall agenda for the Hancock administration.

In a news release announcing Salazar’s appointment, Hancock said Salazar was chosen for his passion for public service, deep understanding of a range of issues and ability to collaborate and build consensus.

“Having spent his career working in Colorado, Alan truly cares about the future of our community and will bring that dedication to the people of Denver,” Hancock said. “His in-depth knowledge of the work at-hand and his strong background in bringing diverse interests together will help to move Denver forward. He will be a steadfast hand for the city and well-informed adviser.”

Following the departure of former Chief of Staff Janice Sinden to become president and CEO of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Hancock launched a search to fill the position in September. Salazar will assume his new role as chief of staff on Nov. 21.

“The opportunity to support Mayor Hancock as he charts a course for Denver’s future is both humbling and exciting,” Salazar said in the release. “I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve a community and city I love. Denver is experiencing an extremely vibrant time, and with this brings many opportunities and challenges. I believe my experience and dedication to serving Colorado has prepared me to serve Denver well and I am eager to get to work.”

Salazar’s background includes chief of staff for then-U.S. Rep. Mark Udall and deputy chief of staff for former governor Roy Romer. He also worked for former U.S. Senators Tim Wirth and Gary Hart, and played key roles in both the Romer and Clinton-Gore campaigns in Colorado.

Earlier this year, Salazar had transitioned to work for the Clinton campaign from Gov. John Hickenlooper‘s office. There, he served five years as chief strategy officer and director of policy, research and legislative affairs, and was responsible for moving Hickenlooper’s policy and legislative agenda, and providing direction for the administration and cabinet departments.

Salazar also led efforts to pass historic gun background checks legislation, reform early childhood education, deliver responsible oil and gas regulation, and engage with communities in developing a statewide economic blueprint.

“Alan Salazar has an instinctive political savvy only enhanced by his intelligence and grace,”  Hickenlooper said in the release. “While I am immensely grateful for all that he has done for me personally and our team, I am even more excited to see what a great partner he will be with Mayor Hancock.”

Salazar was born in Leadville and grew up in the Denver metro area. His appointment was cheered by  community leaders.

“Having worked with Alan for years, I could not be more pleased that he will be joining Mayor Hancock and his administration, said Nita Gonzales, president and CEO of Escuela Tlatelolco, in the release. “Great leaders surround themselves with great talent and Alan is a man of renowned integrity from the community for the community. I have come to know Alan for his genuine and open approach to addressing tough issues, and then working to find the best solutions for all. I trust he will continue this reliable work in this new role at the city.”

Salazar received his bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Colorado-Boulder and is a published member of the University of Colorado Law Review.