Parson names ex-Ozark alderman, nonprofit leader to staff

Lt. Gov. Mike Parson chose a former Ozark alderman and local nonprofit leader for a staff position.

Parson selected Randy Wright to serve as his director of marketing and tourism, according to a news release.

In addition to his Ozark role, Wright previously worked as executive director of Springfield-based Champions Committed To Kids and as a member of the Missouri House of Representatives. 

Additionally, Parson picked former state Rep. Ward Franz as his chief of staff. He succeeds Patrick Baker, who became Missouri’s flood recovery coordinator under Gov. Eric Greitens, according to the release.

“These additions to my existing staff will only improve upon our team and allow us to expand on new initiatives to benefit the people of Missouri,” Parson said in the release. “I take pride in hiring not only well-qualified individuals, but also the hardest workers.”

Wright and Franz are among six staff members reporting to Parson, according to LtGov.Mo.gov.