WASHINGTON - Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe today announced the appointment of William (Bill) Whitman Jr., a veteran communications leader and public relations executive, as vice president, Corporate Communications.

“Bill brings more than 30 years of corporate communications and public relations leadership to the Postal Service,” said Donahoe. “As vice president, Bill will be responsible for all aspects of our internal and external communications, and will lead our efforts to advance public understanding of our products, services and corporate mission.”

“I am excited to join the world’s leading postal service agency and one of the most recognized brands in the world to develop communications and public relations initiatives that align with our business plans and priorities as well as advocate for our customers,” Whitman said.

Whitman recently served as vice president and chief communications officer for McDonald’s USA. During his 13-year tenure with McDonald’s Corp., he held senior positions in communications and corporate relations and led a variety of high-profile corporate initiatives.

Prior to joining McDonald’s Corp., Whitman held several positions with leading public relations and marketing communications agencies. Prior to McDonald’s Corp., Whitman held leadership positions with Exxon USA, where he worked in strategic communications, community relations, public affairs and regulatory compliance.

Whitman has received recognition throughout his career from local, national and international organizations, including the Public Relations Society of America, PR Week, National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and the United Way.

Whitman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communications from Southern Illinois University and attended the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.