Dr. Sana Syed has been selected as Chief Communications Officer for the City of Fort Worth and will lead the Communications & Public Engagement Department (CPE) as it enters a new phase of strategic alignment and service delivery. Syed, who has been fulfilling this role in an interim capacity for the City since May, is an executive with nearly 25 years of experience in public relations, public affairs and strategic communication across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Her expertise spans organizational development, community outreach, crisis communication, media relations and brand and reputation management.
She most recently led a strategic marketing and communications firm, The Marilla Group, as co-founder and consultant and served as vice president for Allyn Media. Prior to that, she served as the director for the Public Information Office for the City of Dallas, leading citywide media relations, public engagement and crisis communications. Syed’s career also includes a background in journalism and broadcasting, giving her a unique perspective on storytelling and transparency in government.
“Clear, consistent communication with residents is key to Fort Worth’s continued success,” City Manager Jay Chapa said. “Sana grew up in Fort Worth and knows the City. She brings the leadership, creativity and experience needed to strengthen our citywide voice, elevate public engagement and ensure we are prepared for both everyday communication and moments of crisis.” Under Syed’s leadership, CPE will advance implementation of the recently approved organizational realignment, designed to improve coordination, responsiveness and brand cohesion across all City communications.
CPE includes citywide communications, media relations, social and digital media, public engagement, Fort Worth TV and the City’s 311 customer service center and MyFW app. Following recommendations developed in partnership with The Marilla Group, the department has been restructured to include three core divisions:
- SHOP (Strategic Hub for Outreach and Production): creative services, community engagement, design, video, web and brand management.
- Public Information Office (PIO): media relations, crisis communication and strategic messaging.
- Customer Care: 311 and MyFW customer non-emergency services.
This new structure strengthens Fort Worth’s ability to inform, engage and connect with residents, ensuring a cohesive and proactive approach to communication.
Syed holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Texas at Arlington, a master’s degree in journalism from Texas Christian University and a Ph.D. in urban planning and public policy from University of Texas at Arlington.
Her first day in the role is October 20.
