6-10 years

Stephen Susano is the Co-Founder and COO of Stones River Group, a Nashville-based public affairs firm serving both Tennessee, regional and national clients. He provides clients with strategic counsel on business opportunities and project management, regulatory matters, procurement, economic development, third-party engagement, and market positioning. Stephen leverages his lengthy private-sector experience and deep network of relationships with business leaders and key policymakers in state and local government across Tennessee to deliver solutions for clients in multiple industries.

Prior to Stones River Group, Stephen served as Executive Director of the Tennessee Business Partnership (TBP), an advocacy organization supported by many of the state's leading enterprises. He spearheaded its efforts to advance pro-business policies, including education and judicial reforms, to encourage job growth and economic development. In 2014, Stephen led the statewide "Vote Yes on 2" campaign in support of the Judicial Selection Amendment to the Tennessee constitution. Stephen built a broad coalition of business groups, trade associations, legal advocates and community leaders in favor of the amendment. This coalition's successful mobilization helped ensure the amendment was approved with overwhelming support, carrying 94 out of 95 counties in Tennessee

Prior to working in the public affairs space, Stephen had an extensive career in the financial services industry. He served in operating and business development roles for several investment advisers and asset management firms. He has consulted with and raised capital for both U.S. and foreign-based investment firms, and has negotiated distribution and trading agreements with multiple financial services companies. Through his work, Stephen navigated complex regulatory regimes in domestic and offshore jurisdictions

Stephen grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee and currently lives in Brentwood with his wife, Ana. He and Ana have four children. Stephen serves on the board of the Nashville Downtown Partnership.

Laura Boehmer brings a wide range of experience in local, state, and federal policy to Southern Strategy Group's Tampa Bay office. Having worked in and around government for over 16 years, Laura has assisted elected officials, community organizations, governments, and businesses in achieving their goals.

Prior to joining Southern Strategy Group, Laura served as the chief lobbyist for the City of St. Petersburg (City). Laura was responsible for all policy and appropriation issues. In that role, Laura directed the federal appropriations process for the City and succeeded in securing millions of dollars in federal grants and earmarks. In addition to her federal work for the City, Laura was also responsible for developing, strategizing, and advocating for the City's State Legislative Program and was also instrumental in the creation and implementation of the City's Sustainability Program.

In her role at the City, Laura served as staff for former Mayor Rick Baker in his roles as the Chairman of the Century Commission of a Sustainable Florida, Vice Chair of the Governor's Action Team on Energy and Climate Change, and Group Leader of Governor Crist's Transition Team. This experience gave Laura extensive exposure to numerous policy issues and the opportunity to build statewide relationships with political and business leaders.

Prior to working for the City, Laura served as legislative staff in the Florida House of Representatives. Laura also worked for a private lobbying firm representing clients on a wide variety of issues. Laura has staffed and volunteered on various campaigns and worked with a national corporation on nation-wide grass roots efforts to pass legislation. Having analyzed patterns of Congress and maintained PAC communications between a corporate government relations department and PAC members, Laura is well versed in the political efforts of both private and public sectors.

0-5 years

Chris Gobble is a respected government affairs specialist with deep issue expertise and a broad base of policymaker and stakeholder relationships. He leverages his insights into the state General Assembly, Tennessee executive branch, and local governments to help SRG clients navigate complex political challenges and effectively advance meaningful policy solutions.

Prior to joining SRG, Chris served as senior director of public policy for the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, where he helped drive policy changes and facilitate government affairs efforts for 2,000 businesses representing over 180,000 employees. He also regularly and effectively collaborated with local, state, and federal elected officials to advance Chattanooga's status as a leader in education, workforce, and economic development.

Prior to Gobble's tenure in Chattanooga, he was the legislative and policy director for the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. In this role, Gobble worked closely with Governor Bill Haslam's office and the state legislature to develop and implement a variety of public policy initiatives.

Originally from Bradley County, Chris earned a B.A. in Political Science and Communications from Lipscomb University. He and his wife Sarah live in Nashville.