WASHINGTON — CBS News has tapped Michele Perez Exner, formerly US Sen. Tim Scott’s press secretary, to lead communications for the organization’s Washington bureau.

As communications director, Exner will handle communications for CBS journalists based in the Capitol and breaking news generated from the region, as well as for the Sunday public affairs show Face the Nation. She will assume the role July 5.

While working for Scott, Exner handled communications for the South Carolina Republican’s senatorial work, television appearances and communications strategies.

Before that, Exner spent eight years in the U.S. Marines, as a communications, marketing and advertising expert, an instructor and a public affairs officer.

“Michele’s background in political communications combined with her experience handling public relations for the Marines will be of enormous value to the CBS News DX bureau,” said Christa Robinson, CBS News senior VP of communications. “We are fortunate to have someone with Michele’s range of experience joining our team.”