Melissa Garrett
San Diego,CA
Summary
Results-driven government relations professional with over 20 years of progressive responsibility representing organizations in complex and highly-regulated environments. Experienced in building comprehensive government relations programs, cultivating a deep understanding of state and local political, legislative, and regulatory processes. Proven track record of successfully representing employers before diverse audiences. Recognized as a creative thinker who excels in building industry-wide coalitions and implementing effective state legislative and public affairs strategies to advance corporate and community priorities.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Director, Government Relations Business Development
Elevance Health (Formerly Anthem, Inc.)
04.2016 - 07.2024
- Responsible for planning and developing new business and product growth opportunities in West Region states across all Anthem product lines
- Served as company liaison to key state government officials, policy makers, influencers, and decision makers, as well as industry organizations and other stakeholders to promote company interests within a highly regulated industry
- Oversaw coordination amongst Anthem business development teams, health plan leadership, subject matter experts, and critical functional areas
- Provided research, analysis and recommendations on the state environment as part of the development of strategic plans for lines of business
- With a heavy focus on California, coordinated across lines of business to direct Anthem Foundation and Community Relations giving and activities to ensure appropriate engagement of community and government stakeholders
- Responsible to ensure coordination of outreach activities and messaging throughout internal interested parties
Associate Vice President, Government Affairs
Bridgepoint Education
12.2009 - 04.2016
- Directed Bridgepoint Education's 50-state legislative and regulatory advocacy program, including overseeing PAC and grassroots programs
- Developed and maintained effective avenues of communication with state Attorneys General, elected officials at all levels, and community stakeholders
- Led public affairs campaigns in key western states focusing on brand reputation management programs in localities where Bridgepoint maintains physical presence
- To advance company policy and reputational initiatives, served as lead contact for national policy organizations, maintained positions on key committees and boards; and cultivated opportunities for board and commission appointments for company leadership
Manager, Legislative Affairs
American Specialty Health
03.1998 - 12.2009
- Served as key contributor in developing and growing the organization's nationwide government affairs program
- Acted as lead liaison with state legislators and regulatory agencies as well as with multi-state trade associations and national legislative organizations
- Represented the company during committee hearings and on national conference panels
- Developed and implemented legislative strategies to enhance the company's ability to provide services in key states
- Led discussions with executive leadership and internal departments to facilitate company positioning during critical federal health care reform efforts
- Recognized by promotion and awards for success while moving through various roles within the company
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science, Sociology
University of Tennessee – Knoxville
Skills
- Public policy
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning and engagement
- Effective communication
- Consensus building
- Legal and regulatory compliance
Timeline
Director, Government Relations Business Development
Elevance Health (Formerly Anthem, Inc.)
04.2016 - 07.2024
Associate Vice President, Government Affairs
Bridgepoint Education
12.2009 - 04.2016
Manager, Legislative Affairs
American Specialty Health
03.1998 - 12.2009
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science, Sociology
University of Tennessee – Knoxville
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