The University of Michigan Board of Regents approved the appointment and the establishment of the Office of External Relations on Thursday, Nov. 15.
“There is a great deal of synergy between government relations and communications and marketing, given that both units work to best position the university to external audiences. Much of the work done in Lansing involves strong relationship building and effective communication,” said UM-Dearborn Chancellor Daniel Little. “Ken has demonstrated solid abilities in both areas, while carrying out the university’s communications and marketing efforts. The creation of this new office will best take advantage of the talent and resources of both areas.”
The communications and marketing function will continue to include internal and external communications, the university’s website, advertising and branding. The government relations function will represent the university in dialogue with federal, state and local governments, and will present the university's position with respect to current and proposed legislation.
Kettenbeil has served as executive director of communications and marketing since March 2010 and as interim director of government relations since Oct. 12, 2012. Previously, he served as the director of communications for smart USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Penske Automotive Group. He also served as the vice president of communications for the Detroit Super Bowl XL Host Committee and marketing manager for the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau.
