Mayor Eileen Higgins Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Today, Mayor Eileen Higgins announced the appointment of Maca Casado as Chief of Staff, entrusting her with leading the Mayor's Office, strengthening coordination with City leadership and employees, and ensuring the administration delivers on its priorities for Miami residents. The Mayor also announced the appointment of Marta Viciedo as Chief Strategy Officer, where she will lead key strategic initiatives and help advance the administration's policy agenda. Both have been integral members of the Mayor's senior leadership team since the beginning of her administration and will take on expanded responsibilities in their new roles.

"From day one, my administration has been focused on building a City Hall that works for the people of Miami, and that starts with strong, experienced leadership," said Mayor Eileen Higgins. "Maca is a trusted strategic advisor and a proven leader who knows how to navigate complex challenges, bring people together, and get things done. As Chief of Staff, she will play a central role in leading my team, working closely with City leadership and employees across departments, and ensuring we deliver on our commitments to Miami residents. Marta brings an exceptional understanding of our city, a clear vision for its future, and a proven ability to turn ideas into action. These appointments will strengthen our ability to lead with urgency, accountability, and a focus on results."

Casado has served as Senior Advisor and Communications Director to Mayor Higgins, helping shape the administration's communications strategy, manage complex policy and public affairs issues, and strengthen engagement with Miami's diverse communities. A proud Venezuelan American, she brings a deep understanding of the city's multicultural identity and a strong commitment to public service.

A seasoned communications and public affairs leader, Casado brings extensive experience in government, national political campaigns, and strategic communications. She previously served as Vice President of Communications at Operativo and as Coalition Media Director and National Senior Spokesperson for the Harris-Walz presidential campaign. Her background also includes senior communications roles at the Democratic National Committee and the Florida Department of Agriculture, as well as on President Biden's 2020 presidential campaign and for former Congresswoman Donna Shalala.

As Chief of Staff, Casado will lead the Mayor's Office, oversee the coordination of the Mayor's senior team, and work closely with City leadership and employees to translate the administration's priorities into coordinated action and measurable results.

Viciedo has served as Senior Advisor and Director of Strategic Initiatives and Economic Growth in the Mayor's Office, advancing initiatives focused on economic opportunity, small business development, and neighborhood investment.

Before joining the administration, she served as Miami Director at the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and co-founded Urban Impact Lab and Transit Alliance Miami. As Chief Strategy Officer, she will lead the Mayor's signature initiatives, including Elevate Small Business, Develop to Serve, and permitting reform.

"This work has always been about building a Miami where prosperity is within reach for everyone who calls it home," said Viciedo. "I am grateful to keep doing it alongside Mayor Higgins and a team that shows up every day for this city."

The appointments reflect Mayor Higgins' continued commitment to assembling an experienced, results-driven leadership team focused on improving government performance, strengthening public trust, and delivering on the priorities that matter most to Miami residents.