The former executive director of the Massachusetts Democratic Party will manage City Councillor At-Large Felix Arroyo’s mayoral campaign. Clare Kelly, who has also worked as Gov. Deval Patrick’s field director in his 2010 reelection campaign, is a North End resident.

“I am thrilled that Clare Kelly has signed on to lead our campaign. She was my first and only choice because she is the best choice,” Arroyo said in a statement. “She has impressive grassroots campaign experience and knows that a grassroots effort isn't just a smart way to campaign, it's the right way to campaign.”

Kelly started as an intern with Patrick’s first gubernatorial campaign, rising to become volunteer coordinator and then advocacy director. She took over as executive director of the Massachusetts Democratic Party in 2011.

Kelly said she signed up with Arroyo’s campaign due in part to his background as a “longtime community organizer.”

“It’s the right way to campaign, and the right way to govern,” she said.

Chris Joyce, who has served as Kelly's deputy, will take over as executive director of the state Democratic Party.