The Baltimore Orioles announced the hire of Kerry Watson as Executive Vice President, Public Affairs.

Watson joins the Orioles organization in a newly created position, where he will oversee the club’s government affairs, communications, community development, and creative content, according to a press release.

He comes to the Orioles after six years in executive positions at MGM Resorts International, including the last three years as MGM’s Regional Vice President of Government Affairs. At MGM, Watson significantly grew the company’s positive impact on local communities where MGM has a footprint, with specific attention to supplier diversity and job creation.

Raised in Maryland, Watson previously served as a Governmental Relations Consultant for Alexander & Cleaver, an Annapolis lobbying and law firm, and prior to that, as Senior Advisor to Prince George’s County Executive Rushern Baker. Before embarking on his career in government affairs, Watson had a 20-year career with the Prince George’s County Police Department.

Prior to his career in government affairs, he dedicated 20-years to the Prince George’s County Police Department where he served in roles including: patrol, K9 handler, instructor and Vice-President of the Fraternal Order of Police. He also serves on numerous boards such as Chair of Employ Prince George’s, Vice-Chair of MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, as well as the National Center for Victims of Crime.

Photo via Leadership Greater Washington