Statement by the Press Secretary

Today, President Bush is pleased to announce that he has named Blake L. Gottesman to serve as Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations.

Blake is a trusted aide who understands the tremendous challenges of overseeing White House operations. He is well-respected in the White House and will do an outstanding job helping to ensure that the staff continues to effectively serve the American people throughout the remainder of the President's Administration. President Bush appreciates Blake's willingness to return to the White House and continue his service to our country.

Blake worked as an Associate at Berkshire Partners LLC in Boston. Prior to this, he served as Special Assistant to the President and Personal Aide. Earlier in his career, he served as Personal Aide to the Chief of Staff and Executive Assistant to the Director of Oval Office Operations. Blake received his MBA from Harvard Business School.