MSU hires former Parson administration staffer as next chief of staff

A former policy director in Gov. Mike Parson's administration has been hired to fill the vacant chief of staff role at Missouri State University.

Jamie Birch is scheduled to start June 24 as MSU's chief of staff and assistant to the president for legislative affairs, according to a news release. MSU spokesperson Andrea Mostyn said via email that MSU's most recent chief of staff, Ryan DeBoef, exited in January 2023. DeBoef joined Hahn | DeBoef Government Relations at that time, according to past reporting. 

Birch led state agency cabinet engagement and coordination for Parson from 2023-25. She also has legislative and executive leadership experience at the Missouri Public Service Commission, the town of Queen Creek, Arizona, and the office of Arizona Gov. Janice K. Brewer.

"Her experience in executive operations and legislative strategy makes her uniquely qualified for this dual role," MSU President Richard "Biff" Williams said in the release. "Having worked at the highest levels of state government, she understands both executive leadership and advancing legislative priorities that will benefit our university and students."

At MSU, Birch will oversee the president's schedule and access, coordinate projects and initiatives, and lead the school's local, state and federal legislative agenda, officials say.

"My experience working across state agencies and understanding Missouri’s legislative landscape will help me support President Williams’ vision," Birch said in the release. "I look forward to building strong partnerships that benefit our students and the community."

Mostyn said the salary for the position is $180,000.