Our goal is to deliver results for our clients. We are a hardworking team who represent our clients' interests at the highest levels on both the legislative and executive sides.
Dedicated to working hard for our clients in a bi-partisian fashion.
Passionate about public service, government relations, grassroots and politics.
Innovative in our ways of approaching clients legislative and lobbying needs.
2) AMERICAN AIRLINES GROUP INC.
3) AMGEN, INC.
4) AT T ILLINOIS AND ITS AFFILIATES
8) CIVIC COMMITTEE OF THE COMMERCIAL CLUB OF CHICAGO
9) CONSTELLATION ENERGY GENERATION, LLC
10) DUPAGE MAYORS MANAGERS CONFERENCE
11) FIDELITY CONSULTING GROUP, L.L.C.
12) FORD HEIGHTS SCHOOL DISTRICT 169
13) HEALTH CARE COUNCIL OF ILLINOIS
14) ILLINOIS FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION
15) ILLINOIS PODIATRIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
16) ILLINOIS STATE AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION
18) KUHN, SARAH
Matthew O'Shea is the President of Matthew O'Shea Consulting, Inc. In 1994, Matthew started his public service career with State Representative Dan Rutherford and then worked for State Representative James Durkin and Senator Thomas Walsh from 1995 through 2000. While working for Representative Durkin and Walsh, Matt attended John Marshall Law School and completed his Juris Doctor in 2000. After leaving Representative Durkin and Senator Walsh, he served as the Village Administrator for the Village of Forest Park located in the western suburbs of Cook County. While serving as Village Administrator, Matt was also appointed to the Senate to fill out the remaining term of Senator Tom Walsh for the 22nd Legislative District.
As State Senator, Matt was able to learn and experience the legislative process from an elected official standpoint. In 2004, Matt joined House Republican Minority Leader Tom Cross as Deputy Chief and Ethics Officer before coming Chief of Staff. In his role as Chief of Staff, he dealt with all four legislative caucuses including participating in several high level leadership meetings. His role as Chief of Staff allowed him to deal with many important issues facing the legislature such as pensions, capital funding, energy, local government, budget, Medicaid and redistricting.
Matt has knowledge and experience working with many regulatory issues including those before Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. Matt has spent time working on many political elections at all levels of state government.
219-201-3923
77 WEST WACKER DR, SUITE 4100, CHICAGO, IL, 606011818,
Subjects: All Subjects
Links:Website
2) AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY
3) AMERICAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS
4) BLOCK, INC.
5) BLOOMINGTON AND NORMAL WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT
7) CHARGEPOINT
9) COLLEGE OF AMERICAN PATHOLOGISTS
11) CYRUSONE
12) DERIVA ENERGY
13) ELEVANCE HEALTH, AND ITS AFFILIATES
14) ENTERTAINMENT SOFTWARE ASSOCIATION
15) FAIRCOM
16) GARDAWORLD FEDERAL SERVICES LLC
17) GIFT OF HOPE ORGAN TISSUE DONOR NETWORK
18) ILLINOIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION
20) ILLINOIS MANUFACTURED HOUSING ASSOCIATION
21) ILLINOIS SOCIETY OF PATHOLOGISTS
22) KANE COUNTY
23) MAXIMUS
24) METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT OF GREATER CHICAGO
25) MIDAMERICAN ENERGY COMPANY
26) MIDWEST GAMING ENTERTAINMENT, LLC
28) MOM S MEALS
29) MORTON ARBORETUM
31) NATIONAL CONFECTIONERS ASSOCIATION
33) NEW VENTURE FUND
34) NICUSA, INC.
35) NORTH SHORE GAS
36) NORTHERN MORAINE WASTEWATER RECLAMATION
38) PHANTOM FIREWORKS SHOWROOMS LLC
39) QUALITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, LLC
40) RETIRED STATE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION
41) RTX CORPORATION
46) SHIFTMED, LLC
47) SIDEPRIZE LLC D/B/A PRIZEPICKS
48) STRAIGHT SMILE, LLC DBA BYTE
50) STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP ALLIANCE, LTD.
51) SUPERIOR AIR-GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE INC.
52) TASKRABBIT, INC.
54) THE PEOPLES GAS LIGHT COKE COMPANY PEOPLES GAS
55) TOWN OF NORMAL
58) VISTRA CORPORATE SERVICES COMPANY
59) WEC ENERGY GROUP, INC., AND ITS SUBSIDIARY WEC BUSINESS SERVICES LLC
60) WHITT LAW LLC
0-5 years
U.S. Senate; U.S. House of Representatives; Illinois Department of Transportation
Before joining the firm, Greg Bales worked for U.S. Senate Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin for more than a decade, serving as senior advisor in the Senator's government office as well as his campaign manager for his 2020 reelection. During his time with the Senator, he oversaw special projects throughout Illinois, and worked as a liaison to elected officials, businesses, community organizations, and other constituencies across the state.
Prior to joining Senator Durbin's staff, Greg worked as a policy advisor for the Illinois Department of Transportation. He was a staffer for former Illinois Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, and he has worked on numerous political campaigns in California, Illinois, and Indiana. Before managing Senator Durbin's recent reelection, Greg took leave to elect Illinois Congressman Sean Casten to his first term in 2018, and served as Illinois state director for Secretary Hillary Clinton's 2016 Presidential campaign.
Greg's relationships span across the state, including the Illinois Congressional delegation, the Illinois General Assembly, City of Chicago, Cook County government, and in numerous municipalities and local units of government. Greg has concentrated on infrastructure funding, economic development, and earmarks. He has worked with Illinois General Assembly leadership on legislative language to ensure millions of dollars in federal funding for election security were allocated to cybersecurity; managed multi-million-dollar campaign budgets; pitched stories and gone on the record with the media; and lobbied for state funding for public transit.
609-577-3687
222 West State St Suite 211, Trenton, NJ, 08608,
Subjects: All Subjects
Links:Website
Eric is a highly accomplished senior executive, consultant, attorney, lobbyist and board member with 20 years of success in public policy, politics, law, government, healthcare, financial services, transportation and the nonprofit sector. He previously held a position as an associate at Drinker Biddle & Reath where he helped start the government relations and lobbying group.
1) AMERIGROUP
2) ANTHEM INC AND ITS AFFILIATES DBA AMERIGROUP NJ
3) ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS (ABC) OF NJ CHAPTER
7) CHSPSC LLC
10) CRICKET COMMUNICATIONS INC/LEAP WIRELESS INTERNATIONAL INC
12) DUANE MORRIS GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS LLC
13) ERICKSON RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
14) FAIRMOUNT CAPITAL ADVISORS
15) FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATORS OF NEW JERSEY
16) GLOBALPRIVATEEQUITY.COM INC
22) JPMORGAN CHASE HOLDINGS LLC
23) KS ENGINEERS
24) M/A COM
20+ years
In 2017, Governor-elect Phil Murphy selected Eric to serve on the Human Services Committee for his transition team. During that same year, he was nominated by Kentucky State Senator Jimmy Higdon and commissioned by Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin to become a Kentucky Colonel.
In 2004, Eric was nominated by New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey to serve on the South Jersey Port Corporation's Board of Directors, which is responsible for the development of port facilities in South New Jersey. Eric was reappointed in 2008 by Governor Corzine and again in 2017 by Governor Chris Christie.
In 2018, Eric was appointed to the Advisory Board of the Burbank International Film Festival.
Eric is also a founding member of the Board of Directors for the NYC Fashion Manufactures Alliance of Design Educators and Save the Garment Center in New York City; a position he's held since 2008.
In 2007, Eric was selected by the American Council of Young Political Leaders, a bi-partisan not-for-profit international exchange organization, as a delegate to Vietnam for a two-week political exchange program. Eric joined six other young political leaders from the U.S. to study Vietnam's political system, engage in dialogue on international issues, and forge professional relationships. He's also participated in international trade missions, including trips to the Netherlands, China and the United Arab Emirates.
Eric was appointed in 2007 by New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine to serve as a member of the Economic Growth Council to assist with statewide economic development policies.
Eric is a former Committee Chairman for the Mercer County College Board of Trustees Advisory Committee and a former member of the Board of Trustees for the Arts & Business Partnership of Southern New Jersey. He's served on the boards of the Mercer County Workforce Investment Board, the Mercer County Economic Development Committee and Junior Achievement. Eric was appointed by Assembly Majority Leader Paul DiGaetano in 2002 to the New Jersey Council of Local Mandates and served as Vice Chairman until 2004.
Experience You Can Count On
Drexwood's core competency is lobbying. Our team's in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal government enables us to provide our clients with a blueprint for success in the public sector and a unique insight into what hazards to avoid. We use our political knowledge and experience to help our clients understand where they are, see where they need to go, and build a strategy for success here in Illinois. We help identify key public officials best suited to champion our clients' causes as we advocate on their behalf before the state legislature and Illinois's executive agencies. Our job is to get big things done at any level of politics, government, and public life.
2) AMROCK
3) ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN PUBLISHERS
4) BOTANICALS FOR BETTER HEALTH AND WELLNESS
5) CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVES, INC.
7) CONDUENT INCORPORATED AND ITS AFFILIATES
9) DRONEDEPLOY
10) EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION CONSORTIUM
13) GTI-CLINIC ILLINOIS HOLDINGS, LLC
14) ILLINOIS PORTABLE TRUCK INSPECTION, INC
15) ILLINOIS RENTAL PURCHASE DEALERS ASSOCIATION
16) LAZARE, BEN
15-20 years
Mike founded Drexwood Partners LLC with the mission to merge government affairs with a business savvy approach. By drawing upon his nearly 15 years of experience in government and politics combined with 10 years of experience in finance and real estate, Mike is able to provide a unique perspective to his clients. As a registered lobbyist he works with government officials at the state, county and city level navigating the process to solve problems and achieve the desired results for his clients.
Prior to founding Drexwood, Mike served as executive vice president at All-Circo, Inc, a full service government affairs and lobbying firm. There he handled the needs of over 60 clients ranging from fortune 500 companies and small businesses to units of government, non-profits and associations across all sectors and issues. In addition to helping clients with their legislative and administrative goals, he provided counsel in regards to appropriations, regulation, procurement, and coalition development.
Mike was previously vice president at Chicago-based real estate development firm The Prime Group. Serving as a member of the capital markets group, he provided financial analysis, budgeting, and due diligence on real estate transactions as well as helped facilitate $400 million in financing for the JW Marriott mixed use development on LaSalle Street. He began his career in New York with Jefferies & Company on the institutional trading desk, providing sales trading coverage for corporate accounts and hedge funds.
Mike received a B.S. in Finance from Santa Clara University in 1998. He resides in Chicago with his wife, Liz, and two daughters.
Former senior legal counsel in the Illinois Senate President's office
Member of the State Bar of Illinois
Mandy Drendel joined the Cornerstone Illinois team as a vice president in January 2021. She is an attorney and registered lobbyist with experience advocating on behalf of clients before the Illinois General Assembly and Executive Branch. As a contract lobbyist, Mandy's worked on behalf of industries including telecommunications, energy, gaming, healthcare, insurance, education and cannabis.
Prior to joining Cornerstone, she served as senior legal counsel in the Illinois Senate President's office where she worked on telecommunications, insurance, tax, and pension issues. During her tenure, Mandy helped lead major legislative initiatives including a telecommunications rewrite, small cell wireless deployment, major insurance legislations, revenue packages, property tax relief and pension reform.
Before that, Mandy served on the Senate Democratic legal team, and acted as the caucus's key regulatory and administrative rule specialist where she staffed the General Assembly's administrative rulemaking committee. This experience provided her direct access and insight into the regulatory arm of Illinois state government.
Mandy received a Juris Doctorate from the Loyola University Chicago School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
Has worked on campaigns at every level of government in the state of Illinois, and brings particular expertise in the financial services industry
Served as general counsel to a state charted community bank, which managed more than $1 billion in assets
Served on the Illinois Supreme Court's foreclosure crisis commission in 2011
1) ABBVIE
2) ASSOCIATED BEER DISTRIBUTORS OF ILLINOIS
3) ASSOCIATION
4) CASEBOOK PBC
6) CITGO PETROLEUM CORPORATION
7) CITRIX
10) EEL HOLDINGS LLC
11) FOUNDATION
12) HEALTH CARE COUNCIL OF ILLINOIS
13) ILLINOIS GREEN ECONOMY NETWORK
14) ILLINOIS HEALTH & HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
15) ILLINOIS ROAD & TRANSPORTATION BUILDERS
16) INITIATIVE
18) LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE
19) LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER VALLEY-RURAL PROSPERITY
20) LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
21) NORTHPOINT DEVELOPMENT, LLC
22) NUTANIX
24) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
25) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
27) SMART LOCAL 265
29) THOMSON WEIR LLC
30) VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE
31) WALMART INC.
William ("Bill") Smith brings to Cornerstone a wealth of experience in politics and government affairs, particularly working with the financial services industry in Illinois. Prior to joining Cornerstone, he served as General Counsel to a state chartered community bank which managed more than one billion dollars in assets and operated subsidiary insurance and title insurance agencies. In that role, Bill worked at the state and national levels on legislative initiatives that affected the industry.
Bill has experience working on campaigns at every level of government in the State of Illinois including executive offices, legislative and judicial. He has served on the Legislative Division of the Community Bank Association of Illinois. In 2011, the Illinois Supreme Court selected Bill to serve on its foreclosure crisis commission to develop recommendations on legislative and procedural changes to address the impact of the foreclosure crisis throughout the state.
Based upon his significant experience and network of relationships, Bill provides his clients with a strong and experienced advocate in the state legislative and regulatory arenas. In addition to his state experience and contacts, he maintains very good working relationships with the members and staff of the Illinois congressional delegation.
Bill graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1988 with a B.A in Government and DePaul University College of Law in 1991 where he graduated cum laude and was inducted into the Order of the Coif.
Experience You Can Count On
Drexwood's core competency is lobbying. Our team's in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal government enables us to provide our clients with a blueprint for success in the public sector and a unique insight into what hazards to avoid. We use our political knowledge and experience to help our clients understand where they are, see where they need to go, and build a strategy for success here in Illinois. We help identify key public officials best suited to champion our clients' causes as we advocate on their behalf before the state legislature and Illinois's executive agencies. Our job is to get big things done at any level of politics, government, and public life.
2) AMROCK
3) ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN PUBLISHERS
4) BOTANICALS FOR BETTER HEALTH AND WELLNESS
5) CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD INITIATIVES, INC.
7) CONDUENT INCORPORATED AND ITS AFFILIATES
9) DRONEDEPLOY
10) EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION CONSORTIUM
13) GTI-CLINIC ILLINOIS HOLDINGS, LLC
14) ILLINOIS PORTABLE TRUCK INSPECTION, INC
15) ILLINOIS RENTAL PURCHASE DEALERS ASSOCIATION
16) LAZARE, BEN
6-10 years
Paul joined Drexwood Partners in 2019 bringing 10 years of professional experience with him, including a half decade handling multi-state government affairs and running a U.S. government affairs operation for a multi-national company.
Adept at handling complex public policy issues, Paul began his early professional days working as a litigation paralegal for multiple law firms and working as a field organizer on a national campaign. To begin his government affairs career, Paul spent a short time in Washington D.C. working for a child welfare non-profit conducting policy research and organizing advocacy days.
Prior to joining Drexwood as Vice President, Paul served as Director of Government Relations for a publicly-traded company where he led U.S. federal and state government affairs for multiple business segments. While there he executed federal and multi-state government affairs strategies to support organizational goals across six businesses. This included managing federal appropriation and jurisdictional committee advocacy, a fifty state legislative tracking operation, and direct and indirect lobbying in over half a dozen states across the country. In addition to traditional government affairs work, Paul led the first company-wide global political risk assessment due to international expansion and re-designed the internal government affairs approach to also focus on brand development for business segments that found more value in an elevated presence among government officials.
With a broad range of policy experience in agriculture, education (Pre-K through postsecondary), child welfare, healthcare, insurance, and tech fields, Paul is prepared to tackle new and complex issues quickly to deliver results. He is passionate about government affairs — from traditional lobbying and strategy development to advocacy, coalition building, and policy research.
A native of mid-Missouri, Paul holds a M.A. in Political Science from University of Missouri, Kansas City and a B.A. in Pre-Law/Legal Studies from William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri. He currently lives in Chicago, Illinois with his wife and two sons.
(312)701-0221
121 W. WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 1108, CHICAGO, IL, 60601,
Nicolay & Dart LLC is a law firm concentrating on governmental and regulatory representation. Its two principals, John Nicolay and Tim Dart, have many years of experience representing premier clients at all levels of Illinois government. Nicolay & Dart LLC is one of the few firms in Illinois providing governmental representation in the General Assembly, the Chicago City Council, and Cook County government. Formerly partners at Winston & Strawn LLP, John and Tim provide a unique balance of experience that allows them to advocate effectively in any situation. The firm offers intensive, personalized strategy and representation that conforms to the highest ethical standards.
Firm Specialties:
Our attorneys are experienced in many areas of governmental and regulatory law, including legislation, agency rulemaking, government procurement, executive clemency, governmental ethics and zoning.
In addition, we have often partnered with the top public affairs firms in Illinois to provide a full range of grass-roots and media strategy services to our clients. Our experience has shown that a comprehensive approach to a legislative or regulatory problem is the best way to obtain a positive result for our clients.
2) AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE COMPANY
3) AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP
4) ASSOCIATION
5) ATTORNEYS' TITLE GUARANTY FUND, INC.
6) CHICAGO CUBS BASEBALL CLUB, LLC
8) COPART
11) ENTERTAINMENT)
12) EXPEDIA, INC
JOHN D. NICOLAY directed state governmental representation at Winston & Strawn LLP for seven years. Previously, he served as general counsel to the Illinois Senate President, where his responsibilities included staffing and operations for the Illinois Senate Judiciary Committee.
Prior to his work with the office of the Senate President, he served as a legislative liaison for the Cook County State's Attorney's Office where he helped secure passage of more than 50 pieces of legislation, including major sentencing and evidentiary reforms. He also served as an Assistant State's Attorney and practiced in the area of commercial and governmental litigation at Shefsky & Froelich, Ltd. In addition, Mr. Nicolay served as a Legislative Aide to former Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson, and as a special assistant to Governor James R. Thompson.
Mr. Nicolay has represented Fortune 500 companies, trade associations, and entrepreneurs in the General Assembly. He also has negotiated and litigated on behalf of clients before municipal and administrative law tribunals. He is a frequent speaker on legislative process and governmental ethics, and served as outside ethics counsel to the Senate President. Mr. Nicolay is the co-author of Effective Dates of Illinois Legislation, in the Handbook of Illinois Administrative Law (Illinois State Bar Association, 2001).
In January 2008, Mr. Nicolay was named as a "Rising Star" in the Illinois Super Lawyers edition of Chicago Magazine, having been nominated by fellow members of the Illinois bar.
Mr. Nicolay is past President and serves on the Board of Directors of The Advocacy Group, an international governmental affairs organization. He is Vice-Chairman of the Illinois Executive Mansion Association, a not-for-profit corporation which administers the public use of the Governor's Mansion in Springfield and the Hayes Mansion in DuQuoin. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of MacMurray College, served two terms on the Board of Directors of the Illinois State Chamber of Commerce, and served on the Board of Directors of Intermountain Corporate Affairs Company. He is honored to serve on the Advisory Board of Misericordia/Heart of Mercy Home in Chicago, a residential facility for developmentally disabled children and adults, which is a pro bono client of the firm.
Mr. Nicolay received a B.S. in history and political science from MacMurray College and a J.D. from DePaul University College of Law. He is admitted to practice in the Illinois Supreme Court and the United States District Court for the Northern, Central, and Southern Districts of Illinois.
630-649-0293
1263 WEST PRATT BLVD, UNIT 201, CHICAGO, IL, 60626,
Subjects: All Subjects, Ballot Measures/Campaign Finance/Elections, Cannabis/Drug Legalization, Children/Family/Women, City/County Government, Civil Rights, Consumer Protection, Corrections/Criminal Justice, Criminal, Health Care, Housing/Real Estate/Development/Construction, Immigration, Labor/Unions, Non-Profit, Pharmaceuticals, Public Safety, Telecommunications
Links:LinkedIn
At Miles, we specialize in providing comprehensive political consulting services, project management, public relations, and strategic planning tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Led by Marcus King, President, our team is committed to fostering effective communication and advocacy strategies that drive results in the realms of lobbying, crisis communications, and corporate as well as nonprofit communications.
Our mission is to empower organizations to navigate complex political landscapes and effectively engage with stakeholders. We utilize cutting-edge research, strategic insights, and a deep understanding of public policy to deliver innovative solutions that enhance our clients' influence and impact.
Specialties:
- Lobbying
- Crisis Communications
- Corporate Communications
- Nonprofit Communications
- Strategic Planning
- Public Relations
- Public Speaking Training
0-5 years
Key Achievements:
Developed and managed high-impact community and media strategies at the Housing Authority of Cook County, leading to increased awareness and support for affordable housing initiatives.
Served as a chief legislative liaison, effectively advocating for policy changes and securing funding for critical programs at the Housing Authority of Cook County.
Spearheaded innovative programs like the "Summit of Hope," significantly reducing recidivism rates and improving re-entry support for ex-offenders at the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Education:
Master of Science in Communication, Northwestern University, 2019
Bachelor of Arts, Southern Illinois University, 2011
Certifications:
- Business Writing, State of Illinois I IDOR
- Project Management, State of Illinois I IDOR
Speaking Engagements:
Guest Lecturer at various universities, sharing insights on political communication and advocacy.
630-400-1309
1450 Bradley Court, Downers Grove, IL, 60516,
KMCStrategies capitalizes on 35 years of government affairs expertise with industry leaders including General Electric Company and McDonald's Corporation. KMCStrategies has a strong record of securing public policy results, proactive engagement, anticipating legislative issues, and establishing strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders regardless of political party affiliation.
3) Ruetgers
20+ years
General Electric Company Awards
2016 --GE Project Plum Award
2014 - GE Chicago Executive Leadership Team
2014 - GE Project LEAP
2013 - GE Government Affairs and Policy Pinnacle Award
2012 - GE Transportation HQ Relocation Team
2011 - GE Golden GECO Award
2010 - GE Capital Chicago Expansion
McDonalds Team Awards
2005 - 50th Anniversary Development Team
2002 - Illinois Tollway Development Team
2002 - Bradley Airport Development Team
2001 - Reward and Recognition Team
2001 - 25th Anniversary, Ronald McDonald House Charities in Illinois
2001 - Present McDonald's Salute to the Military Team
2000 - McDonald's All-American Basketball Program
1999 - 25,000 Restaurant Core Team
1999 - 2002 Founder's Week Team
1998 - Eastern Division Relocation Team
2012 -- Present: Catholic Education Foundation -- Executive Committee and Board Secretary
2011-- Present: Chicago Youth Program - Board Member
2010 -- Present: Illinois Chamber of Commerce -- Board Member
2007 -- 2008: State Government Affairs Council -- President
KMCStrategies leverages thirty five years of legislative, public policy and political experience to represent businesses and associations on the state and local government levels in Illinois. Provides added value to clients by:
Advocating for clients on policy issues before the executive and legislative branches of state government;
Developing strategies to secure desired resolution to public policy issues;
Organizing and leading coordained lobbying activities with various organizations and interest groups;
Strategic planning and inoculation of key legislative leaders of industry trends;
Candid and timely feedback on issues
General Electric Company (GE) June 2010 -- March 2018
Responsible for directing state and local government affairs, public policy engagement, community relations and reputation management activities in 15 states for GE, one of the world's most recognized brands. Specific duties include:
Developing and managing strategic plans, anticipate, identify, monitor, and analyze government proposals and trends that may affect the GE business portfolio;
Direct lobbying, managing contract lobbyists, developing and guiding coalitions, representing GE's public policy interests in trade groups;
Maintaining ongoing communications with GE senior leadership, plants and facilities.
Leading issue management team within GE to proactively identify and develop appropriate response to specific government affairs matters; and
Additional responsibilities include activating GE's extensive grassroots network, community engagement and ownership of reputation management within the region.
McDonald's USA Director - Government Relations December 1995 -- June 2010
Managed government relations activity for twenty-five (25) Eastern and Central states, as well as Arkansas and Hawaii's more than 6,100 restaurants with annual revenues exceeding $10.5 billion. Responsibilities included:
Served as legislative strategist and advocate for McDonald's;
Identified and developed opportunities to secure government policies that reduced costs to McDonald's and created a favorable business climate for increased sales;
Served as a liaison to other internal departments to advise them of developments that may impact their areas of responsibility;
Lead McDonald's grassroots efforts to influence the outcome of legislative and regulatory developments, including developing strategy, communicating, educating and motivating over 1,000 McDonald's owner/operators, senior management, associations, coalitions, competitors and consultants;
Leveraged relationships with major business and trade associations and other third-party allies; and
Built the McDonald's Trust Bank and enhanced the corporation's reputation with public officials, opinion leaders, McDonald's owner/operators, and the general public.
Illinois House of Representatives Office of Speaker Madigan August 1984- November 1989
More than 12 years of Illinois legislative political experience
Joined Cornerstone from one of the largest health systems in Illinois
1) ABBVIE
2) ASSOCIATED BEER DISTRIBUTORS OF ILLINOIS
3) ASSOCIATION
4) CASEBOOK PBC
6) CITGO PETROLEUM CORPORATION
7) CITRIX
10) EEL HOLDINGS LLC
11) FOUNDATION
12) HEALTH CARE COUNCIL OF ILLINOIS
13) ILLINOIS GREEN ECONOMY NETWORK
14) ILLINOIS HEALTH & HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
15) ILLINOIS ROAD & TRANSPORTATION BUILDERS
16) INITIATIVE
18) LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE
19) LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER VALLEY-RURAL PROSPERITY
20) LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
21) NORTHPOINT DEVELOPMENT, LLC
22) NUTANIX
24) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
25) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
27) SMART LOCAL 265
29) THOMSON WEIR LLC
30) VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE
31) WALMART INC.
Julia Larkin joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in February 2020 with more than 12 years of legislative experience in the state of Illinois. In her role as vice president, Julia uses her skills to help clients in Illinois advance their advocacy goals. Prior to joining Cornerstone, Julia served as the director of advocacy and government relations at AMITA Health, one of the largest health systems in Illinois. During her time in this role, Julia represented the organization's mission with state and local officials and executive agency staff, while also creating and executing strategies to ensure specific policy goals were met.
Previously, Julia served as legislative coordinator to Speaker of the Illinois House Michael J. Madigan for 10 years, where she assisted in the development of a wide array of policy positions and legislative initiatives. Julia has also supported the Democratic Party of Illinois, where she led state representative campaigns, managed opposition research and oversaw state representative candidate recruitment efforts.
Julia received her Bachelor of Arts with a double major in political science and international studies from Loyola University in Chicago.
THE ADVOCACY GROUP
(50 states, Federal and DC, )703-597-4276
1201 Wilson Blvd., 27th Floor, Arlington, VA, 22209,
Subjects: All Subjects
TAG is a one-stop, results-oriented network for clients with needs in a single state or multiple jurisdictions. The TAG network consists of one top firm per jurisdiction or specialty. Collectively we are 60+ firms including lobbyists across the US, public affairs specialists in various countries (Australia, Canada, Mexico, Russia, CIS, Central Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Turkey, Israel, United Kingdom and the European Union) and specialty services (50-state legislative and regulatory tracking, grassroots, jury selection, market entry strategy and social enterprise business development).
Each TAG member offers its clients a tailored strategy that will provide them with a solution. Our TAG members are an integrated team, both near and far throughout the world, yet offering insight within each location.
The TAG network consists of the top lobbying firms across the US, public affairs specialists in various countries and specialty services.
US Members:
50-States
DC Council
US Congress
International:
Profile Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd (Australia)
Tactix (Canada)
Monarch Global Strategies (Mexico, Central & South America)
Kesarev (Russia, CIS, Central Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Turkey & Israel)
Instinctif Partners (United Kingdom & the European Union)
Specialty members:
Five Corners Strategies (Grassroots Advocacy & Public Affairs)
FOCUS, a Leonine Business (50-State Legislative & Regulatory Tracking & Analysis)
Select Litigation (Jury Selection)
Bullpen, LLC (Market Entry Strategy)
The Virtuous Cycle Collaboratory (Social Enterprise Business Development)
Law Offices of Mitchell D. Gravo, Inc. (Specialty Member)
Proactive, thoughtful, ethical and experienced multistate government affairs counsel
Please provide your full biography and other information that you believe a prospective client would be interested in.
Michael Cassidy is a senior vice president in the state government relations group working out of the Chicago and Springfield offices. Michael advises clients before Congress, the Illinois General Assembly and various local, county and municipal governments.
He provides counsel in regards to executive & legislative affairs, coalition development, crisis communications, media relations, and strategic communications. Recently, Michael played a major role in the 2010 primary and general re-election of Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.
Prior to joining the firm, Michael built a robust network of contacts working as a senior member of Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan's legislative staff. In that position, he coordinated legislative agendas and media relations for members of the Democratic caucus. Michael also possesses substantial campaign experience having served in various supervisory roles on municipal, county, state and statewide campaigns. Working for the Democratic Party of Illinois, he was responsible for the advancement of Democratic candidates through grassroots organizing, strategic fundraising, message development, field coordination, and crisis management, direct mail campaigns, earned, and paid media.
2) AAR CORP
3) ACADIA HEALTHCARE COMPANY, INC.
4) AT&T ILLINOIS AND ITS AFFILIATES
6) BROKERS' RISK PLACEMENT SERVICE, INC.
8) CAPITAL ONE FINANCIAL CORPORATION
9) CHARGEPOINT
10) CHICAGO ROCKFORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
11) CIOX HEALTH, LLC
12) CITY OF ROCKFORD
13) CME GROUP, INC.
16) ENTERTAINMENT SOFTWARE ASSOCIATION
17) GHOST MANAGEMENT GROUP DBA WEEDMAPS
18) GIFT OF HOPE ORGAN & TISSUE DONOR NETWORK
19) GROUPON
20) ILLINOIS RAILROAD ASSOCIATION
21) ILLINOIS STUDENT ASSISTANCE COMMISSION
22) INTUIT
23) KALEO, INC.
25) LIBERTY DENTAL PLAN CORPORATION
26) MAXIMUS, INC.
27) MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT, INC.
28) METRA
29) MIDWEST GAMING & ENTERTAINMENT, LLC
30) NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ENERGY SERVICE
32) NEW VENTURE FUND
33) NICUSA, INC.
34) ODS TECHNOLOGIES, L. P. D/B/A TVG NETWORK
35) PHANTOM FIREWORKS SHOWROOMS LLC
36) QUALITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, LLC
37) ROCKFORD BOARD OF ELECTIONS
38) ROCKFORD MASS TRANSIT DISTRICT
39) ROCKFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT 205
42) SCIENTIFIC GAMES CORPORATION
43) STEPAN COMPANY
15-20 years
Member of the national council of state legislatures
Longest serving political director to Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan and the Democratic Caucus of the Illinois House of Representatives
Involved in the strategic development and passage of most major legislative initiatives over the past 10 years
Maintained and grew House Democratic majority as political director over four campaign cycles
1) ABBVIE
2) ASSOCIATED BEER DISTRIBUTORS OF ILLINOIS
3) ASSOCIATION
4) CASEBOOK PBC
6) CITGO PETROLEUM CORPORATION
7) CITRIX
10) EEL HOLDINGS LLC
11) FOUNDATION
12) HEALTH CARE COUNCIL OF ILLINOIS
13) ILLINOIS GREEN ECONOMY NETWORK
14) ILLINOIS HEALTH & HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
15) ILLINOIS ROAD & TRANSPORTATION BUILDERS
16) INITIATIVE
18) LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE
19) LOWER ILLINOIS RIVER VALLEY-RURAL PROSPERITY
20) LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
21) NORTHPOINT DEVELOPMENT, LLC
22) NUTANIX
24) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
25) RIVERDALE SENIOR APARTMENTS
27) SMART LOCAL 265
29) THOMSON WEIR LLC
30) VILLAGE OF ELK GROVE VILLAGE
31) WALMART INC.
0-5 years
Will Cousineau joined Cornerstone's Springfield, Illinois office in June 2017. Will comes to the firm after nearly 18 years working for Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan, including eight years as political director for the Speaker and the Democratic Party of Illinois.
Will was the longest serving political director for Speaker Madigan and most recently served as senior advisor to the Speaker. Over the past 10 years, Will worked directly with Speaker Madigan to shape, develop and implement the strategy and messaging for the Speaker's legislative and political agenda and the agendas of every member of the House Democratic Caucus. He also developed the implementation of political, legislative and outreach strategies for House Democratic Caucus members and all aspects of the Illinois House's political operation.
During his time with the Speaker's office, Will was involved in the major initiatives that moved through the Legislature over the past ten years, including such legislation concerning utilities, conceal and carry, financial institutions, and civil laws. Additionally, Will was intimately involved in the 2010 drawing of legislative districts, including new districts in the suburban region that have helped House Democrats expand and maintain their majority. While many democratic legislative caucuses across the country lost record numbers of seats during his tenure and every legislative chamber in the Midwest outside Illinois became Republican controlled, Will guided the Illinois House caucus and the Democratic Party of Illinois through a period of expansion and maintained a healthy majority for Illinois House Democrats.
Will's long tenure with the House, experience with message development, crisis management, grassroots organizing and input on political campaigns for offices throughout the state, gives Will an ability to understand complex legislative and political problems, easily digest those issues for members and clients and put together a collaborative and detailed action plan for moving forward.
In 2014, Will and his wife, Macy, adopted three sisters from Latvia. This experience has shaped their family, has given them the opportunity to speak with others about adoption and has encouraged their family to assist others who are adopting children both internationally and domestically. In 2016, Will and Macy's family grew with the arrival of their son.
In his spare time, Will is active in his church and serves on the Board of Elders. Will currently resides in Chatham, IL with his wife and four children.
