The Republican National Committee has tapped Doug Heye, a veteran GOP spokesman, to be their new communications director.

This is not the first time that Heye has worked for RNC Chairman Michael Steele, whose well-publicized gaffes have garnered some unwanted press attention during his short tenure as chairman. Heye was the Maryland Republican’s spokesman during his unsuccessful 2006 bid for Senate.

“I’m proud to have Doug Heye join our team,” Steele said in a statement. “His experience in campaigns and the halls of Congress brings a unique skill set to our communications operation.”

Since Steele’s Senate campaign, Heye has been in private practice consulting campaigns and other clients. Heye’s previous experience includes serving as communications director for Sen. Richard Burr’s (R-N.C.) 2004 Senate campaign.

Heye comes to the RNC after two top press aides have departed in the last few months. RNC Press Secretary Gail Gitcho left in January to serve as press secretary for newly elected Sen. Scott Brown (R-Mass.), and former Communications Director Trevor Francis left in November.

The RNC also announced that Katie Wright has been promoted to deputy communications director.