CGCN Group, an integrated advocacy and public-affairs firm, on Tuesday announced the addition of Ken Spain to its strategic communications division to help companies and industry groups navigate complex public-policy challenges and image concerns.
"Ken brings a rare mix of high-level corporate and political experience to our growing communications practice," said Steve Clark, founder of CGCN Group. "He has successfully managed crises and repositioned some of the most prominent industries, companies and executives in the eyes of the public."
The expansion comes two months after CGCN Group launched its strategic communications practice to provide clients with more direct outreach to the media and the ability to create content and build coalitions inside and outside Washington. This integrated approach is increasingly critical for companies and industry groups to achieve their public-policy objectives.
Spain joins CGCN from Koch Industries, where he served as managing director for corporate communications and external affairs. He played a central role in the company's recent branding effort, shaping news coverage and highlighting corporate and philanthropic initiatives that illustrate the company's commitment to strong values.
He previously served as vice president of public affairs and communications at the Private Equity Growth Capital Council (now the American Investment Council). In that role, he helped leading private-equity firms educate Americans about the critical role they play in the country's economy. He also managed the communications effort for Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives when they regained the majority in 2010. The New York Times called it "one of the most remarkable congressional campaigns in more than half a century."
Before entering the private sector, Spain worked on a number of political campaigns and for multiple members of Congress, including House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R., Texas). That experience gave him a firm grasp of what messages resonate with lawmakers and voters back home, making him an ideal complement to CGCN's highly regarded lobbying team.
"We found a perfect fit," Clark said. "Ken has an incredible record of success in politics, corporate communications and trade associations. He works hard, cares about his clients and earns the respect of everyone he works with."
Spain joins former Wall Street Journal reporter Patrick O'Connor, who launched the firm's strategic communications practice back in September. CGCN's new public-affairs team offers clients a unique understanding of how the media operates and how voters and politicians react.
ABOUT CGCN
CGCN Group is an integrated advocacy and strategic communications firm that specializes in helping corporations, non-profits and industry groups navigate complex legislative and regulatory issues. The firm provides outreach to key policymakers, gathers strategic intelligence and offers a full suite of tools for media and grassroots communication. CGCN represents more than 50 clients from a wide range of industries, including non-profits, Fortune 500 companies and prominent trade associations.
