November 8, 2024: President-elect Donald Trump announced Thursday that Susie Wiles, one of his campaign managers, will serve as his White House chief of staff when he takes office in January. Wiles, 67, will make history as the first woman to hold the powerful position, which involves overseeing the White House staff, managing the president's schedule, and coordinating with key government departments and lawmakers.

The appointment is the first in what is expected to be a series of staffing announcements as Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20.

"Susie is tough, smart, innovative, and is universally admired and respected," Trump said in a statement. "I have no doubt that she will make our country proud."

Wiles, a longtime Florida-based political strategist, played a key role in Trump’s successful campaign. Alongside fellow campaign manager Chris LaCivita, Wiles helped run a more disciplined operation in Trump’s third presidential bid compared to previous campaigns. Trump personally thanked both of them during his victory speech on Wednesday, joking about Wiles' penchant for staying in the background. "Susie likes to stay in the back, let me tell you," Trump said, adding with a smile, "We call her the ice maiden."

As chief of staff, Wiles will be tasked with managing the intricate workings of the White House, a job that is often described as one of the most influential in the U.S. government. Those who have worked with her describe her as a steady, strategic figure with a reputation for providing solid counsel and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure.

Wiles’ appointment signals Trump’s intent to rely on a trusted team as he returns to office, with many other potential appointees expected to be drawn from familiar figures of his first term. Sources close to Trump have indicated that he is considering a wide array of names for key positions, even as he remains largely secluded at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach following his victory over Democratic challenger Kamala Harris.