As the chief government advocate for a trade association representing more than 600 independent broadband, video and telecommunications providers that serve large and small markets and rural areas, my core responsibility is managing the formulation and implementation of the group’s strategic initiatives before Congress, at federal agencies, especially the FCC and NTIA, and the courts. Specific duties include developing policy, drafting filings, Congressional and agency lobbying, crafting public relations messaging and releases, working with third parties, managing the association’s litigation portfolio, and encouraging grassroots activism among the group’s members. Other responsibilities include representing and speaking on behalf of the association at industry events, fundraisers, and other forums, including Congressional hearings, engaging with the media, and educating the membership regarding legal and regulatory developments impacting their businesses. My duties also extend to hiring, training, and managing staff attorneys, selecting and supervising outside counsel and consultants, developing and tracking budgets, reporting on activities, assisting with the association’s annual conferences and other events, and working with the group’s Board of Directors.

Legislative responsibilities for the nation’s second largest satellite TV company, operating under the brand name Dish Network, included helping formulate the business’ policy positions, developing its legislative strategies, and working with Congress. My duties also entailed drafting legislation, talking points for meetings, testimony for the company’s Chairman, supervising consultants, building third-party coalitions, managing grassroots activity and the PAC, working with industry press, and organizing Congressional fact-finding trips. Another responsibility included overseeing the company’s state lobbying effort.Regulatory duties entailed overseeing EchoStar’s filings with the FCC on matters concerning the 2004 Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act, and its comments on video competition issues. Other responsibilities included representing the company in meetings with FCC Commissioners and staff of both the Media and International Bureaus of the Agency.