Hill+Knowlton Strategies has named Ellen Moran, former White House communications director for President Obama and former executive director of EMILY’s List, an executive vice president and the general manager of the global public relations firm’s D.C. office. She begins March 23.

According to a release, Moran joins H+K Strategies from a sister agency, Dewey Square Group, which she joined in 2012 as a principal bringing more than two decades of experience working in the highest levels of government, politics and communications. Prior to joining DSG, Moran served as chief of staff and chief advisor to Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke after serving the Obama administration in 2009 as the White House communications director. Before joining the White House staff, Moran served for four years as executive director of EMILY’s List, the nation’s largest resource for Democratic women candidates.

“I’m excited to be taking on this new role and honored to have the opportunity to lead this terrific team,” Moran said. “I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues at H+K for several years and I’ve always been struck by their talented team and impressive client roster. I look forward to working more closely with them and continuing the collaboration between Dewey Square Group and Hill+Knowlton.”

The D.C. GM role was previously held by Howard Opinsky who, in late 2014, moved to a role leading the firm’s East Coast region.