Rick Thomas Email & Phone Number

Portland, Oregon Metropolitan Area

Provides strategic counsel to businesses, trade associations, non-profit organizations and governmental entities on often-complex communications challenges.Develops and execute public relations planning efforts on behalf of a broad range of clients including several Fortune 500 companies. Assists clients with crisis communications planning and response efforts.Interacts with reporters, editors, and bloggers on behalf of clients; provide on and off-the-record interviews that frame stories.Mentors, coaches and develops staff within the agency to increase skills and capacity.Oversees agency financial operations, legal compliance issues, and long-range planning and budgeting.

Portland, Oregon Metropolitan Area

Developed and managed strategic communications and grassroots advocacy campaigns on behalf of trade associations and local businessesLobbied on a variety of public policy issues at the local, state and federal level.Lead award-winning creative campaigns on behalf of campaigns throughout Oregon.Executed comprehensive strategic planning efforts on behalf of multiple candidates and ballot initiative campaigns

Salem, Oregon, United States

Managed policy, communications, community outreach and administrative staff to advance policy and political objectives.Oversaw development and tracking of the caucus’ agenda and policy objectives from concept to passage.Participated in negotiating meetings with legislative leaders on policy and budget matters.Worked with lobbyists and community groups to build coalitions and drive support on policy and budget issues.Assisted legislators and organizations in developing and executing strategy to advance their legislative priorities.Interacted with the Governor’s office, state agencies, and other levels of government on policy and budget matters.Planned and managed major media events to create awareness and drive public opinion on policy initiatives.Recruited, mentored and motivated the office’s staff toward the goal of providing exceptional support to caucus members, their staff, and constituents.

Oregon, United States

Executed comprehensive strategic planning efforts on behalf of a dozen campaigns in a diverse assortment of communities across the state.Directed the organization’s staff and team of consultants to advance its messaging, advertising, research, fundraising, and grassroots development efforts.Briefed and prepared candidates prior to major speeches, debates, or media interviews.Coordinated fundraising and business outreach efforts involving aggressive personal contract and list development to consistently exceed PAC fundraising goals.Assisted candidates and directed their staff in the day-to-day operations and administration of their campaigns. Strategically placed candidates and legislators in front of a broad range of civic, business, community and trade organizations.

Portland, Oregon Metropolitan Area

Served as Chief Executive for a statewide association of construction contractors.Launched a successful, award-winning government affairs program.Increased awareness and relevance of the organization among key stakeholders and media outlets covering the industry.Implemented strategic planning process to foster an organizational vision with measurable short and long-term goals.Lobbied and testified before officials at the state, federal and regulatory levels on behalf of the industry.Built coalitions with like-minded organizations to leverage support for the organization’s priorities.Rebuilt the organization’s credibility, financial stability, and employee morale. Created an industry model for workforce development and continuing education programs – providing members a more highly trained and skilled workforce.Developed partnering programs with industry suppliers and service providers to better leverage support for member programs and add value to associate membership.