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Mercury Welcomes Top Political Strategist Eric Johnson as Managing Director

Tallahassee, FL (October 11, 2022) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm announced the addition of top political strategist and government relations expert Eric Johnson as Managing Director in Mercury’s Florida office. Johnson brings more than 30 years of political and government experience in Washington, D.C. and Florida at the local, state, and federal levels.

“Eric is a pro at what he does and a fixture in Florida and D.C. politics. Over the years, he’s addressed major public affairs challenges and led key strategic communications efforts for national political leaders, corporations, and nonprofits,” said Mercury Partner Ashley Walker. “We are thrilled to have Eric join the Mercury team and deliver exceptional work to our clients.”

Previously, Eric founded Johnson Strategies, where he served as a political advisor and media consultant for clients seeking election and reelection at the local, state, and federal levels. His current clients and experience include U.S. senators, cabinet members, congressman, state senators, state representatives, mayors, county commissioners, ballot initiatives, and an array of advocacy groups and corporate clients.

Johnson has served as Chief of Staff to two Florida Congressmen: Robert Wexler (D-Boca Raton) and Patrick Murphy (D-Jupiter), and ran the winning campaigns for Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL) and Congressman Patrick Murphy, who defeated Congressman Allen West in what was at the time the nation’s most expensive congressional election in history. Most recently, he served as the strategist for former Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Jared Moskowitz’s Congressional Campaign.

“I am honored to be joining the team of experts at Mercury,” said Johnson. “I look forward to continuing my commitment of lifting up the next generation of leaders and organizations while providing successful outcomes for our clients at Mercury.”

Johnson served as the top advisor to the Florida Chairman of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign in 2008 and as Chief of Staff to Florida State Senator Tom Rossin. He has been recognized as one of the most influential people in Florida politics by Campaigns and Elections Magazine and was selected as one of most influential people in Florida by Influence Magazine in 2022 and for the past three election cycles.

About Mercury

Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, and South Carolina. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group

Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, language strategy, global health strategy and change management. As the largest group of communications professionals in the world, our employees provide expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the Communications Consultancy Network, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC).

About Omnicom Group

Omnicom Group Inc. (www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

Mercury Hires Patrick Costello to Lead NGO/Think-Tank Practice

WASHINGTON, DC (September 12, 2022) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm, today announced the addition of Patrick Costello as senior vice president to its Washington office. Costello spent over a decade at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in Washington, where he held a number of senior roles and directed CFR’s interactions with policymakers and the diplomatic community, most recently as director of Washington External Affairs.

Costello will join Mercury’s bipartisan federal lobbying team and will lead its NGO/Think-Tank engagement practice

Costello is a recognized expert in U.S. foreign policy, trade policy, business diplomacy and the domestic politics of American foreign policy. Costello also regularly consults with the policymaking community and stakeholders on a wide range of foreign policy and economic issues. He is frequently sought out by individuals, institutions and companies to advise them on how to maximize their influence and impact in Washington, and writes a monthly column for the international business community in Italy.

“Patrick served as the chief liaison to Washington for arguably the most elite think tank in the world,” said Mercury CEO Kieran Mahoney. “He will be indispensable in helping our clients navigate high-level policy challenges, and we are pleased to announce him as the newest member of our team.”

Costello most recently served as the chief executive officer of the American Security Project (ASP), an organization focused on fostering a bipartisan consensus to confront international challenges, where he provided day-to-day management of organizational strategy, internal policy formation and stakeholder engagement, and served as the public face of ASP to outside constituencies. Costello also served in the office of former Congressman Jon Porter (R-NV), fulfilling a variety of policy and communications roles.

“Joining Mercury’s outstanding bipartisan team is a natural extension of my experience in working in Congress and in the international business and foreign policy sector,” said Costello. “I am looking forward to helping clients navigate the Washington policy ecosystem and advise them as they manage risk while working to achieve their business objectives.”

 

About Mercury

Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, and South Carolina. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group

Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, language strategy, global health strategy and change management. As the largest group of communications professionals in the world, our employees provide expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the Communications Consultancy Network, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC).

About Omnicom Group

Omnicom Group Inc. is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

CONTACT:

Dan Wilson
[email protected]
202-261-4000

Top Political Strategist Kevin Drennan Joins Mercury

Westfield, NJ – Mercury Public Affairs today announced the addition of veteran political strategist Kevin Drennan to its New Jersey team as Managing Director.

“Kevin Drennan is a well-respected, highly-accomplished political strategist who knows how to get results, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Mercury,” said Mercury Partner Michael Soliman, who leads the New Jersey office. “His decades of experience in Trenton working with leaders from across the state will be a huge asset to our clients.”

Drennan previously served as Executive Director of the New Jersey Senate Majority Office and as Chief of Staff to Senate President Steve Sweeney. He also served in the administrations of Senator and Governor Jon Corzine and worked on statewide political campaigns for Senators Lautenberg and Menendez and Governor Corzine. In addition, he worked in corporate government affairs roles for United Health Group and Cablevision.

“I am proud to join the talented team at Mercury,” said Drennan. “I look forward to using my many years of experience in the political, public, and private sectors to help our clients succeed.”

“Kevin has worked at the highest levels of government and knows how to navigate complex challenges,” said Mercury Partner Modia “Mo” Butler. “We are pleased to have him join our team of experts at Mercury where I know his vast experience in New Jersey politics will be valuable to our clients.”

Drennan is the treasurer of the Board of Trustees for Mercer County Community College and served as Chair of the State House Joint Management Commission, Chair of the Urban Enterprise Zone Authority, and treasurer of the New Jersey Cable Telecommunication Association.

Drennan received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from The College of New Jersey and his Master’s in city and regional planning from Rutgers University. He lives in Hamilton with his wife and two daughters.

 

About Mercury

Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, and South Carolina. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group

Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, language strategy, global health strategy and change management. As the largest group of communications professionals in the world, our employees provide expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the Communications Consultancy Network, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC).

About Omnicom Group

Omnicom Group Inc. is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

CONTACT:
Dan Wilson
[email protected]
202-261-4000

Mercury Announces Top Republican Political Strategist Susie Wiles as Co-Chair

Former Democratic Congressman Toby Moffett and Jay Propes Named Partners

Tallahassee, FL (February 7, 2022) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm announced the addition of top Republican political strategist Susie Wiles as Co- Chair of Mercury in their Florida and Washington, D.C. offices. As a lead advisor on multiple presidential, gubernatorial and state campaigns, Wiles brings more than 25 years of experience in political strategy, government relations and public affairs.

“Susie is a veteran campaign strategist with an expert ability to put her finger on the pulse of any issue and effectively use her insight and perception to yield winning results,” said Mercury Partner Ashley Walker. “We are thrilled for Susie to join the Mercury family, as she will undoubtedly be an invaluable leader to those working alongside her at the firm and will elevate the work we deliver to our clients.”

The announcement comes on the heels of Mercury naming two new partners to the firm: former U.S. Rep. Toby Moffett in the Washington, D.C. office, who served four terms as a Democrat from Connecticut; and top government affairs specialist Jay Propes, who will head up Mercury’s Texas office.

“Mercury continues to attract nationally recognized, top talent across party lines, which speaks to our reputation as a leading bipartisan public affairs firm,” said Mercury CEO Kieran Mahoney. “Susie, and her ability to successfully navigate any political landscape, is an extraordinary addition to our team. I’d also like to congratulate Toby Moffett and Jay Propes on their new roles as partners at Mercury. They have proven to be vital leaders at the firm.”

In addition to working with Mercury’s Florida and Washington D.C. teams, Wiles will launch Public Strategy Advisors, a new company focused on electing Republicans across the country.

Wiles successfully managed Rick Scott’s first campaign for governor of Florida and also ran Ron DeSantis’ campaign for governor and led his transition team. In 2016 and 2020, Wiles served as the Florida strategist for the campaigns of President Donald J. Trump. She has spent decades working to recruit and elect conservatives at the federal, state and local levels. Wiles has also represented multinational, national, state and local clients before the federal and Florida governments. She currently chairs the Save America PAC.

“I am excited to join the bipartisan team of experts and established public strategists at Mercury,” said Wiles. “I look forward to working hard to provide successful outcomes on behalf of our world-class roster of clients in both Florida and D.C.”

Wiles has been the recipient of numerous awards, including Influence Magazine’s Florida’s 100 Most Influential, and Florida Trend’s Florida’s 500 Most Influential Floridians.

Former Congressman Moffett first joined Mercury in 2020 after an extensive career in government and the private sector. Moffett served as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Environment, Energy and Natural Resources. He was also the leading Democratic government affairs professional at the global law firm Mayer Brown and a top executive at The Monsanto Company.

Propes joined Mercury in 2018 and over the course of his career has represented health care providers, corporate restaurant enterprises, commercial air carriers, financial institutions, management companies of property owners’ associations, and specifically-created entities to incite or survive transactions with governmental, quasi-governmental or regulated entities.

Mercury Welcomes Communications Strategist Michael Nitzky as Managing Director

NEW YORK (December 2, 2021) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm, announced the addition of veteran communications expert Michael Nitzky as managing director to its New York office. Nitzky brings years of experience navigating New York media and politics, having served in high-level communications positions across the government and advocacy spaces, as well as a producer for NY1’s “Inside City Hall”.

“Michael’s experience and media expertise make him a natural fit for Mercury,” said Mercury Partner John Gallagher. “From managing day-to-day and long-term communications strategies – to understanding the landscape of New York public affairs – he is a valuable addition to our team. We’re excited to welcome him.”

Nitzky brings over 20 years of communications experience, having most recently served as director of communications for StudentsFirstNY, where he oversaw media strategy and crisis communications for a leading organization advocating for education reform in New York City. Previously, he was director of communications for New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer, managing long-term strategy and day-to-day operations for the Comptroller’s press office and brand.

Nitzky worked as a producer at NY1 News for over 10 years, including serving as the senior political producer for “Inside City Hall”, New York’s only nightly political news program. In that capacity, he produced, wrote and developed news stories and guest segments for the program.

“I am proud to join Mercury and their top-tier team of experts serving important clients in New York and beyond,” said Nitzky. “I look forward to collaborating with some of the best minds in media and politics to bring smart solutions to meet our clients’ need.”

Nitzky holds a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast journalism and political science from Syracuse University and lives in New York City, with his wife and two children.

About Mercury
Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has an established global presence, with U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, Iowa, South Carolina and Tennessee, as well as international offices in London and Mexico City. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group
Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, marketing to women, global health strategy and corporate social responsibility. It encompasses more than 6,300 public relations professionals in more than 370 offices worldwide who provide their expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the DAS Group of Companies, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) that includes more than 200 companies in a wide range of marketing disciplines including advertising, public relations, healthcare, customer relationship management, events, promotional marketing, branding and research.

About Omnicom Group
Omnicom Group Inc. (www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

Eric Hersey, Former Communications Director for U.S. House Committee on Financial Services, Joins Mercury as Managing Director

WASHINGTON, DC (November 18, 2021) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm, announced the addition of policy communications expert Eric Hersey as managing director to its New York office. Having most recently served as communications director for the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services under Chairwoman Maxine Waters, Hersey brings years of experience developing media relations strategy across key financial issues, policies and initiatives.

“Eric’s track record of success in navigating high-level policy and communications challenges is exactly what our clients around the country are seeking, and we are pleased to announce him as the newest member of our team,” said Mercury Partner Charlie King. “His expertise and skillset are a major boost to our media relations practice. We are proud to welcome Eric to the Mercury family.”

Hersey has over a decade of experience in government and advocacy. Prior to joining Mercury, Hersey spent over four years as communications director for the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services, where he led press outreach, messaging and digital activities. In that capacity, he developed communications strategies for Chairwoman Maxine Waters’ key committee initiatives on issues such as consumer protection, banking, housing availability and affordability, diversity and inclusion, financial technology, and pandemic response.

Previously, he served as communications director for the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, where he spearheaded communications on the organization’s advocacy and organizing efforts involving the Community Reinvestment Act, fair lending, housing finance reform, and the implementation of Dodd-Frank. Earlier in his career, Hersey served as deputy director of constituent affairs for U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and as a constituent liaison for U.S. Senator Hillary Clinton.

“I am thrilled to join Mercury’s outstanding team of experts, who work to provide strategic guidance and solutions to some of society’s biggest challenges,” said Hersey. “I look forward to applying my skills and expertise within the world of public affairs and am excited for the new opportunities that come with working for an unmatched firm like Mercury.”

Hersey holds a master’s degree in public administration from New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service and a bachelor’s degree from Vassar College.

 

About Mercury
Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has an established global presence, with U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, Iowa, South Carolina and Tennessee, as well as international offices in London and Mexico City. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group
Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, marketing to women, global health strategy and corporate social responsibility. It encompasses more than 6,300 public relations professionals in more than 370 offices worldwide who provide their expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the DAS Group of Companies, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) that includes more than 200 companies in a wide range of marketing disciplines including advertising, public relations, healthcare, customer relationship management, events, promotional marketing, branding and research.

About Omnicom Group
Omnicom Group Inc. (www.omnicomgroup.com) is a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom’s branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. Follow us on Twitter for the latest news.

 

Mercury Welcomes Veteran Trade & Economic Sanctions Expert Peter Kucik as Managing Director

WASHINGTON, DC (June 9, 2021) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm announced the addition of international trade policy and sanctions expert Peter Kucik as Managing Director to its Washington, DC office. Having spent seven years at the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) before joining the private legal sector, Kucik brings extensive experience in helping clients navigate sanctions policy and compliance, litigation, and regulatory matters.

“With geopolitical issues increasingly disrupting the global economy, affecting trade policy, and driving export controls and economic sanctions, Peter’s unique expertise is exactly what clients around the world are seeking,” said Mercury Partner Vin Weber. “Peter brings an unmatched combination of experience in international policy, legal issues, and business operations, having worked across the highest levels of economics and trade. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Mercury family as we continue to bolster our global practice.”

As Senior Sanctions Policy Advisor at OFAC, Kucik worked with the Director, the Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI), and other senior government officials to develop and implement sanctions policies and establish new regulatory schemes across OFAC programs. In this role, he supported all aspects of OFAC’s work to craft new Executive Orders, sanctions regulations, license authorizations, and policy guidance in coordination with the National Security Council, Department of State, and Department of Commerce. Kucik played a key role in the implementation of federal sanctions policies for Libya and Myanmar, as well as President Obama’s changes to ease restrictions on travel and remittances to Cuba.

“We are pleased to welcome Peter, whose track record of success in navigating the most complex regulatory landscapes makes him a natural fit for our team. Governments around the globe are reassessing how to treat each other’s large companies,” said Mercury Co-Chair Toby Moffett. “We look forward to opening new doors for our clients under his leadership.”

Kucik joins Mercury after an extensive career in consulting and the legal sector, where he worked with major Asian conglomerates and multinational corporations to fulfill international standards for transparency, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering, and labor rights, as well as formulate effective corporate social responsibility programs. As partner at boutique Myanmar-centric business advisory firm Inle Advisory Group, he worked to develop business and promote trade relationships in Myanmar, the U.S., and throughout the Southeast Asian region. He has assisted companies across the world in understanding and navigating U.S. sanctions, providing risk assessments, conducting due diligence to ensure legal and regulatory compliance, and evaluating potential exposure to Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs) sanctioned by OFAC.

“I am excited to join the team of experts at Mercury and leverage my experiences to bring world- class services to their clients,” said Kucik. “Increasing instability has created brand new challenges for countries, businesses, and people around the world, and I look forward to working hard to provide the strategic guidance, counsel, and solutions they need.”

Kucik has advised Congress and worked with foreign governments, international organizations, and the United Nations to provide information and technical advice regarding sanctions policy. He has appeared on CNBC’s Squawk Box and CNN’s World Business Today and is a go-to resource for The Wall Street Journal, Foreign Policy, Reuters, and Associated Press.

About Mercury
Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has an established global presence, with U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, Iowa, South Carolina and Tennessee, as well as international offices in London and Mexico City.

CONTACT:
Katya Myagkova
[email protected]
202-261-4000

Mercury Welcomes Senior Congressional Staffer Jamiyl R. Peters as Senior Vice President

Democratic Reach Expands with Mercury Leaders Hon. Fabian Núñez, Michael Soliman, Hon. Joe Garcia Joining DC Office as Senior Policy Advisors

WASHINGTON (April 29, 2021) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm, announced the addition of Jamiyl R. Peters as a senior vice president in its Washington office. Peters brings fifteen years of experience in public policy, having most recently served in Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr.’s (NJ-10) office as a Senior Legislative Assistant.

“We are proud to welcome Jamiyl to our unmatched roster of policy experts in DC,” said Mercury Co-Chair Toby Moffett. “Jamiyl brings a key combination of experience across issues that matter to our clients – from infrastructure, housing, and homeland security to education, LGBTQ issues, and youth programs – and an understanding of how to get things done in the decision-making landscape. We are thrilled to have him join the Mercury family.”

Peters began his career on Capitol Hill in 2013, advising Congressman Payne on key legislative priorities and working extensively with key House committees and federal government agencies. Prior to that, he supported local municipalities, county government, and non-profit organizations in his home state of New Jersey. Peters got his start in politics working on the Kerry 2004 Presidential campaign.

“I’m excited to join the top-tier team of experts supporting an impressive and growing list of clients at Mercury,” said Peters. “With a new Congress and administration come new opportunities and challenges, and I look forward to bringing my experience from life as a public servant to the firm.”

The DC office also announced Mercury leaders and senior strategists from three of the firm’s key regions – Hon. Fabian Núñez from California, Michael Soliman from New Jersey, and Hon. Joe Garcia from Florida – as Senior Policy Advisors. All three, while leaders in their respective states’ political arenas, for years have used their expertise to advise and solve problems for clients beyond state borders. Their new roles cement Mercury as a leading consultancy in the national arena, bringing an unparalleled combination of strategic knowledge of federal government, politics, and business. They join Co-Chairs former Senator Barbara Boxer and former Congressman Toby Moffett as part of Mercury’s strong bipartisan team.

“Having led Mercury’s California operation for years, as well as serving in the state government’s leadership, it’s clear that the most important issues of our time lie beyond our own backyards,” said Núñez. “It’s common sense that we leverage the world-class talent we already have toward solving bigger problems and providing world-class solutions. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues Michael and Joe in starting this new chapter in Washington, DC.”

Núñez is a partner of Mercury and the former California Assembly Speaker. He served three two-year terms as a member of the California State Assembly, where he was recognized as “Legislator of the Year” by Governing magazine for his bipartisan efforts in transportation and infrastructure regulation.

Soliman carries a lifetime of experience in government relations, strategic communications, and campaign management. A fixture of political power lists for more than a decade – including the New Jersey Globe Power List, Insider NJ Power List, and ROI-NJ Influencers Power List – he is a top Democratic operative, campaign strategist, and trusted senior advisor to officials including U.S. Senator Robert Menendez.

Garcia served as Congressman for Florida’s 26th District, including on the Committee on the Judiciary, the Subcommittee on Immigration Policy and Border Security, and the Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law. He is a life-long public servant specializing in energy, communications, and international affairs.

About Mercury
Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has an established global presence, with U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, Iowa, South Carolina and Tennessee, as well as international offices in London and Mexico City. Mercury is a part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group
Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, marketing to women, global health strategy and corporate social responsibility. It encompasses more than 6,300 public relations professionals in more than 370 offices worldwide who provide their expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the DAS Group of Companies, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) that includes more than 200 companies in a wide range of marketing disciplines including advertising, public relations, healthcare, customer relationship management, events, promotional marketing, branding and research.

CONTACT:
Katya Myagkova
[email protected]
(202) 261-4000

Mercury Promotes Nationally Recognized Strategist Rachel Noerdlinger To Partner

WASHINGTON, DC (February 1, 2021) – Mercury, a leading global, bipartisan public strategy firm, announced the promotion of award-winning communications strategist Rachel Noerdlinger to the firm’s growing partnership. Noerdlinger will become the first Black female partner in the firm’s history. Noerdlinger has served as Managing Director in Mercury’s New York City office since 2015, specializing in third-party coalition-building and issues related to diversity, inclusion and strengthening relationships for corporations, politicians and high-profile stakeholders working in communities of color.

“Rachel Noerdlinger is an unflappable force on the front lines of social justice. Her versatility and acumen for a host of issues give her distinguished credibility amid a frenetic news cycle in the hard-charging world of politics,” said Kieran Mahoney, Mercury’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our firm watched with pride as, on a pro bono basis, she managed all press for George Floyd’s funeral with poise and professionalism, showing millions why she is an invaluable asset to Mercury and our culture,” he said.

“I have had the great privilege to know Rachel Noerdlinger for two decades through our work at the National Action Network with Rev. Al Sharpton and consider her unmatched expertise in advancing the progressive agenda to be one of pure talent; she is bold, fearless, relentless and effective. Ask any civil rights leader, editor or reporter,” said Charlie King, partner at Mercury. “With her leadership and creativity to build bipartisan coalitions to make a meaningful difference, Mercury will provide even greater value to our clients and grow our influence in New York and around the globe.”

Since the beginning of her tenure in Mercury, Noerdlinger has counseled a diverse array of high-profile clients and Fortune 500 companies on issues spanning corporate communications to criminal justice reform.

Before joining Mercury, Noerdlinger was the Chief of Staff for New York City’s First Lady, Chirlane McCray, and prior to that she was President of Noerdlinger Media, a consulting firm representing a cross-section of high-profile clients in politics, business, civil rights, law, and entertainment.

She has been featured in Essence Magazine as one of the top ten females in the country making strides in her field, and she has been called “the public relations force behind Rev. Al Sharpton and National Action Network,” whom she has advised on communications since the late 90’s. Noerdlinger’s other career highlights include serving as Press Secretary during Rev. Al Sharpton’s 2004 Presidential bid and serving as a public relations advisor to the late Attorney Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr. She is also a board member of the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU).

Noerdlinger has been positively featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New York Daily News and The New York Amsterdam News, among others. Most recently, Noerdlinger’s professional accomplishments have earned her noteworthy acclaim: ranking as the top strategist of New York’s 2021 Political PR Power 50 by City & State and in New York Power of Diversity: Black 100 list by City & State.

About Mercury
Mercury is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services that includes federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, media strategy and a bipartisan grassroots mobilization network in all 50 states. Our firm is not just led by top talent — we distinguish ourselves by having senior talent deeply engaged in each project from start to finish, a promise we keep to clients. The firm has an established global presence, with U.S. offices in Washington, D.C., New York, California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Montana, Texas, Iowa, South Carolina and Tennessee, as well as international offices in London and Mexico City. Mercury is part of the Omnicom Public Relations Group.

About Omnicom Public Relations Group
Omnicom Public Relations Group is a global collective of three of the top global public relations agencies worldwide and specialist agencies in areas including public affairs, marketing to women, global health strategy and corporate social responsibility. It encompasses more than 6,300 public relations professionals in more than 370 offices worldwide who provide their expertise to companies, government agencies, NGOs and nonprofits across a wide range of industries. Omnicom Public Relations Group delivers for clients through a relentless focus on talent, continuous pursuit of innovation and a culture steeped in collaboration. Omnicom Public Relations Group is part of the DAS Group of Companies, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) that includes more than 200 companies in a wide range of marketing disciplines including advertising, public relations, healthcare, customer relationship management, events, promotional marketing, branding and research.

CONTACT
Amaris Cockfield
[email protected]
(212) 681-1380