Qorvis Communications, a Publicis company, today announced Kristen Thomaselli would be joining the firm as a vice president of public affairs. In this role, Thomaselli will develop and execute strategies for Qorvis clients that help advance their advocacy goals both inside and outside Washington, DC.

A seasoned communications and public affairs strategist, Thomaselli will work closely with Qorvis leadership to expand the firm's already robust practice, both domestic and international. Her experience in crafting thoughtful strategies to move the needle on key initiatives tied to policy issues including healthcare, energy, finance, and labor will allow her to provide strategic recommendations to clients from a number of industries and add depth to a variety of public affairs campaigns.

"Kristen is an effective communicator with a strategic mindset. She brings experience from both Capitol Hill and the private sector – along with strong media relationships – to Qorvis and, most importantly, to our clients," said Qorvis Communications President Michael Petruzzello. "She has worked with a broad range of clients – from Fortune 500s, nonprofits, trade associations and labor unions – and will be a tremendous asset to our team."

A West Virginia native, Thomaselli began her career in Washington, DC in the office of U.S. Senator John D. Rockefeller IV (D-WV). In addition to her work on Capitol Hill, she has directed strategic communications and public affairs efforts at Keybridge Communications and Forbes Tate Partners.

"I'm incredibly eager to hit the ground running at Qorvis," said Kristen Thomaselli. "The national and global reach of the firm, and its campaign-style approach, coupled with the impressive, and incredibly diverse, backgrounds of the individuals I'll be working alongside makes this an exciting venture."

The addition of Thomaselli, on the heels of bringing in award-winning Associated Press reporter Brad Klapper as Senior Vice President, also coincides with the company announcement of four key promotions.

Grace Fenstermaker has been named Senior Account Supervisor. Her work delivering strategic counsel to major international and financial projects has led to significant new client revenue for the company.

Carly O'Brien, who began her career as an intern at Qorvis, has been promoted to Senior Account Executive. O'Brien delivers outstanding results to a broad range of clients, from organizing briefings with Congress to developing winning strategies for global sustainability programs.

Shannon Quinn has been named Senior Account Executive. A great thinker, writer and organizer, Quinn's wide range of talent has made her a trusted advisor to multiple international clients. She also leads workplace diversity and tolerance programs in the company's D.C. office.

Anthony Dykes ­has been promoted to Account Executive. Since joining Qorvis just out of college, Dykes has demonstrated skill and expertise well beyond his years of experience.

"It is because of our talented and hard-working staff that Qorvis continues to deliver client successes and gain significant new business opportunities," said Petruzzello. "I'm proud to recognize the outstanding performance of those promoted today."

About Qorvis Communications

Qorvis, a part of MSL, is Publicis Groupe's bespoke public affairs and services offering. The team of specialized individuals develops comprehensive communications strategies that go beyond traditional public relations, advertising and social media concepts. The corps of highly qualified consultants deploys Publicis resources to provide the personal one-on-one service and public diplomacy expertise that is essential for providing positive outcomes to both domestic and global challenges.