Andrew Kling Appointed

For immediate release: Thursday, April 30, 2026

City Manager Mario Vasquez has appointed Andrew Kling as Kansas City's first Chief Communications and Engagement Officer, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the City's Communications Department.

Kling will lead the department's work to strengthen public engagement, support clear and effective communication across City government, and help shape how Kansas City shares its story with residents, stakeholders, and the broader community.

He brings experience in strategic communications, public affairs, media relations, and community engagement, with a background that spans nonprofit leadership, consulting, coalition-building, and international partnership work.

Kling previously served as Community Outreach & Media Relations Director for Unbound, a Kansas City-based nonprofit operating in 19 countries that works to end extreme poverty. There, he helped lead media strategy, strengthen rapid response communications, and traveled to communities on five continents to learn from the innovations and leadership of local families. In the United States he has two decades of civic engagement and nonprofit experience, supporting community efforts related to civil rights, education, public health, and development.

"Andrew understands that strong communications is about more than getting information out. It is about building trust, creating connection, and helping people see how the work of local government touches their daily lives," said Vasquez. "He brings a thoughtful approach, strong leadership, and a real understanding of how to connect strategy with community. This appointment reflects the direction Kansas City is headed as we continue building a communications department that is responsive, collaborative, and centered on serving residents."

A seventh-generation Missourian, Kling has lived in Kansas City since 2013. His professional background reflects a career focused on helping communities share their stories with clarity, purpose, and impact.

"Trust is one of the most powerful resources a community can have. I am honored to be the first person to serve in this role, and grateful to City Manager Vasquez for his commitment to this important work," said Kling. "My main objective is to build up the people and programs that help Kansas City connect and strengthen our communities. We want to provide opportunities to deepen relationships between city government and the people, and the people with each other. This is work that requires all of us, and I'm honored to be able to serve in this new way."

Kling's appointment comes as Kansas City continues advancing major priorities across infrastructure, public service, economic development, and community engagement. Under his leadership, the Communications Department will help support a more connected, strategic, and forward-looking approach to communications citywide.

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Media with questions may contact Sherae Honeycutt, Press Secretary of Kansas City, at [email protected].