BNSF names Andersen AVP, Community and Public Affairs

BNSF named Zak Andersen assistant vice president, community and public affairs, effective January 16, 2012, reporting to John Ambler, vice president, corporate relations. Andersen will oversee the public affairs team within the corporate relations department, with additional responsibility for community relations, public policy messaging and public affairs communication and strategy. To better integrate BNSF's community activities with its contribution programs, Andersen will also work to manage the BNSF Foundation, under the leadership of Ambler, who will continue to serve as president of the foundation. "Zak Andersen is an insightful leader," said Ambler. "With his deep understanding of national public policy issues and how to effectively interact with community interests, we expect to further enhance relationships with our stakeholders and their support for the railroad." Andersen joined BNSF in March 2006 as director, federal government affairs. He was promoted to assistant vice president, federal government affairs, in November 2008, with responsibility for federal legislative matters primarily related to economic regulation, energy and environmental issues.