MICHAEL A. BROWN II
Charlotte,United States
Summary
Senior Level Professional with over 15 years of experience managing government and public affairs for a diverse range of clients, including Fortune 500 multinational corporations, trade organizations, local governments, public universities, nonprofit organizations, start-up tech firms, and renewable energy companies. Analytical thinker, leader, and result-oriented professional with a proven track record of success in navigating complex political landscapes and achieving strategic objectives.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
President and Chief Strategist
Queen City Strategies Group
10.2019 - Current
- Provided strategic counsel for multiple clients, guiding them in making informed decisions to achieve their business objectives.
- Managed a team of 5 and a $3 million budget, effectively allocating resources and ensuring successful project execution.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in the animal use community and pharmaceutical industry to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in livestock. This involved increasing vaccine production and delivery for an Agriculture client.
- Successfully advocated for and implemented clean energy legislation on behalf of clients.
- Secured funding for EV Charging stations, enabling municipal clients to support the adoption of electric vehicles.
- Led a multinational government affairs team across the US, Canada, and South America, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and fostering strong relationships with government officials.
- Testified before federal, state, provincial, and local government authorities, effectively representing clients' interests and influencing policy decisions.
- Developed and implemented crisis communications strategies for clients in need
- Served as Chief Spokesperson for multinational trade association.
Director of State and Local Government Relations
British American Tobacco
08.2016 - 09.2019
- Managed local government relations and public affairs campaigns nationwide and in multiple states, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with government officials and stakeholders.
- Restructured lobbying and engagement strategic plan to create a fair and equitable legislative landscape. Led a team of 15 (lobbyists, public affairs firms, grassroots consultants) that successfully mitigated/defeated ordinances negatively impacting commercial business. Oversaw a $10 million annual budget.
- Built, managed, and mobilized traditional retail and nontraditional diverse stakeholder coalitions nationwide.
- Served as internal government relations liaison to business unit, advising senior leadership on current environment, emerging conditions, and commercial opportunities.
- Forged new relationships with local government organizations (USCM, CLA, AAMA, NLC, NACO).
- Developed and managed nationwide strategic philanthropy program focused on community reinvestment.
Director of External Affairs
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
12.2014 - 09.2016
- Developed and implemented a successful legislative agenda.
- Secured $92 million in state appropriations for university operating budget, capital projects, and research initiatives through lobbying efforts at the NC General Assembly. Additionally, played a key role in the passage of a $2 billion university bond referendum package.
- Founded and led the 'Aggie Advocates' alumni engagement program, leveraging alumni influence to advocate for the university's priorities at the NC General Assembly.
- Managed advocacy efforts of the 1890 land grant universities coalition, leading to N.C. A&T's first-ever invitation to testify before the House Committee on Agriculture in Congress requesting federal appropriations. Wrote all testimony used by those who testified.
- Established strategic partnerships with Google, Apple, and Verizon Corporation to create a diverse workforce pipeline and promote innovation aligned with the university's mission.
Senior Advisor
White House Office of Public Engagement
01.2012 - 12.2014
- Provided strategic guidance and advice to the Secretary and Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs (IEA) on the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in multiple states, including MI, NC, SC, MS, FL, TX, and GA.
- Led and coordinated state coalitions comprised of non-profit hospitals, elected officials, community groups, and industry partners to enhance community outreach and engagement during the 'Open Enrollment' period.
- Acted as a speaker and representative during roundtables and community engagement events, effectively communicating the benefits and importance of the Affordable Care Act to the public.
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
01.2010 - 12.2011
- Led intergovernmental affair activities including serving as the point of contact to Governors, Mayors and State elected officials.
- Served as the liaison for agency to NGA, DGA, RGA, USCM, NCSL, and others
- Prepared briefing memos, talking points, and written and oral testimonies for Secretary Julian Castro and Shaun Donovan.
- Played a critical role as a member of the Superstorm Sandy Taskforce, contributing to the allocation of Disaster CDBG funds.
- Provided strategic communication and legislative advice to senior HUD staff, assisting in their decision-making processes.
Education
Master of Public Administration - Public Policy
North Carolina Central University
12.2006
Bachelor of Science - Economics
University of South Carolina
05.2004
Skills
- Lobbying
- Public Relations
- Crisis Communication
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Strategic Planning
Published Work
Green Blocks: A Guide to Advancing the Clean Energy Transition in Urban Communities
Timeline
President and Chief Strategist
Queen City Strategies Group
10.2019 - Current
Director of State and Local Government Relations
British American Tobacco
08.2016 - 09.2019
Director of External Affairs
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
12.2014 - 09.2016
Senior Advisor
White House Office of Public Engagement
01.2012 - 12.2014
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
01.2010 - 12.2011
Bachelor of Science - Economics
University of South Carolina
Master of Public Administration - Public Policy
North Carolina Central University
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