Established in Tallahassee, Florida, in 1998, Ballard Partners has evolved into a notable public affairs firm with a wide range of clients, including those in e-commerce, professional sports, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals. The firm’s government relations and advocacy services have been recognized by several respected outlets such as the New York Times, Washington Post, and CNN, while its founder and president has received acknowledgment from publications like The Hill, Politico, and Vanity Fair.

Since expanding beyond Florida in 2017, Ballard Partners has experienced significant growth, opening new offices across the U.S. and internationally, while forming strategic alliances with global partners.

Among the regions where the firm has established a presence is California. With offices in Los Angeles and Sacramento, Ballard Partners is utilizing its expertise and extensive network with key figures in government and industry to assist clients navigating business in the Golden State.

California presents unique challenges and opportunities, with its distinct regulatory environment, political landscape, and demographics, as well as a diverse and dynamic economy. Ballard Partners helps clients address these complexities with strategic solutions led by two experienced professionals: the managing partners in the Los Angeles and Sacramento offices.

Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, the office led by the managing partner is achieving favorable results for its clients. Having previously served as a high-ranking official in the Los Angeles City Council, the managing partner joined Ballard Partners in early 2023. The individual’s tenure in the City Council included representing the 15th district, which encompasses the Port of Los Angeles, the second-busiest container port in the U.S. In addition to overseeing the port, the individual had a role in managing LAX and the LA Tourism and Convention Board through the Trade, Travel and Tourism Committee, which the individual chaired for several years.

Among the managing partner’s contributions to the city is their role in helping bring the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games to Los Angeles. During their time in the City Council, they also worked to direct federal assistance to communities during the COVID-19 pandemic as president of the National League of Cities. In addition, the managing partner is also president emeritus of a prominent municipal officials’ organization and has a background as a police officer in Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles office is further supported by partners who bring considerable public affairs expertise. One partner, a former legislative director for a city councilmember, has a broad background in public affairs, having worked at a range of organizations, including a major utility company and a number of public relations firms.

Complementing the work in Los Angeles is another individual with expertise in the entertainment industry and government relations. Hired in December 2024, this individual has significant experience in government affairs, having worked with the Motion Picture Association. Their past work has included securing beneficial terms for film and television productions.

Sacramento

The Sacramento office of Ballard Partners has proven effective at providing thoughtful strategic solutions to clients in California’s capital. The office is led by a managing partner with a wealth of experience in public policy and government affairs. Previously, they served as the legislative affairs secretary for the governor during his first term, bringing valuable insight into navigating California’s political landscape. The managing partner also holds a position on the board of directors for the California High-Speed Rail Authority.

Their career in government also included roles as policy director and special counsel in the California State Senate, and as a member of the Fish and Game Commission. Additionally, the individual co-founded a law firm focused on public policy and has worked for major companies in a range of roles related to national strategy and public policy.

Beyond their work at Ballard Partners, the managing partner has hosted a podcast called 13th & Park, which features discussions with prominent figures across government, media, sports, and more. The podcast has covered a variety of important issues affecting California, such as the state’s housing challenges, climate change, and crime. It has featured insightful conversations with notable individuals, including former mayors and state officials, offering a broader perspective on California’s evolving landscape.

Every episode of 13th & Park is available on YouTube. To learn more about Ballard Partners, visit the firm’s website at BallardPartners.com