Joseph Williams was named Chief of Staff for the State of Tennessee in December 2021. In this role, he is responsible for managing day-to-day responsibilities for the Lee administration, strategic decisions, and staff. Williams previously served as the Director of External Affairs for Governor Lee and oversaw the Boards and Commissions, Scheduling, and Constituent Services offices while representing the Governor to external organizations. Williams also served as Coalitions Director for the Lee campaign and transition.  

Prior to joining the Lee administration, Williams practiced law, focusing on issues of Constitutional law, including protecting First Amendment rights and upholding human dignity. Before beginning his legal career, Williams taught U.S. history and civics at Whites Creek High School in Nashville. 

A native of Memphis, Williams earned his bachelor’s degree and law degree from Vanderbilt University. He and his wife, Palmer, live in Nashville with their three young sons.