Ron Ober
602.274.4244           
rober@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“Often times, there is disconnect between business and government in their respective approaches to solving problems.  Several of us at PDG have worked in both the private and public sector which enables us to identify innovative solutions to complex problems.”

Background
Ron has always had a passion for public policy and helping people find common ground. He entered the political arena when he was just 17 years old as the youth coordinator for a United States Senate campaign. Two years later, he ran Dennis DeConcini’s campaign for Pima County Attorney and in 1976 he managed DeConcini’s successful campaign for United States Senate.

Ron continued to work with Senator DeConcini, as his Administrative Aide, splitting his time between Washington, D.C. and Arizona. After the birth of his first daughter in 1982, he took a brief hiatus from politics and worked in the real estate market in Arizona and Nevada.

All the while, people continued to seek his advice on political and policy matters. This prompted him to co-found Policy Development Group in 1991.

PDG Experience
Ron and Gail Gordon teamed up to start PDG in 1991 with the intention of creating a new brand of public affairs. Ron works with the PDG team to develop strategies which enable clients to accomplish their goals and ensure that the firm is always seeking creative, cutting-edge solutions.

While coordinating the election effort that led to the building of the Cardinals’ Stadium, Ron worked closely with a public relations team. Shortly thereafter in December 2000, PDG established Critical Public Relations, a full service public relations firm. Strategic communications is often the key to successful negotiations and messaging in the public domain and can positively impact public policy. The partnership has brought added value to all PDG clients.

Ron believes politics and business can work effectively together and the PDG team reflects that attitude. PDG specializes in identifying and achieving best case scenarios for all our clients.

Gail Gordon
602.274.4244
ggordon@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“Limitation is just not a word we use around here.  We encourage everyone on staff to utilize their talents and develop new skills.  This makes us a highly adaptable company, and we are proud of it.”

Background

Before co-founding PDG in 1991, Gail spent seven years as a buyer for a division of Federated Department Stores in New York City followed by several more years with Goldwater’s Department Stores in Arizona. In these positions, Gail was responsible for budgeting, projections, forecasting, and P&L performance for several multimillion dollar departments.

Her management experience sets the tone at PDG, where the staff is encouraged to grow and operate outside their comfort zones. Gail brings a sophisticated overlay to organization and operations in our firm, adding a level of efficiency and accountability to PDG that sets us apart from others.

PDG Experience

When Gail and Ron Ober teamed up to create PDG in 1991, their goal was to create a new brand of public affairs. Gail created a business model which has made PDG the leading public affairs firm in Arizona. She established an atmosphere where each team member takes responsibility for his or her own personal success and professional growth while supporting the team as a whole. As a result, collaboration and cross exposure are the norms at PDG. In her daily management of PDG, Gail develops systems that are efficient and effective both internally and externally. Gail remains very active in the community and encourages others at PDG to do the same. She understands how important it is to stay connected and visible with community leaders in order to be current with community developments and business trends.

Jason Isaak
602.274.4244        
jisaak@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“The people in this firm have the unique ability to see things from a 30,000 foot level. We understand the big picture – how both government and business work. This allows us to find opportunities even in the most unusual circumstances.”

Background
Jason is a Tucson native who spent nearly eight years in Washington, D.C. and has an extensive knowledge of Capitol Hill and the executive branch. As Legislative Director for Congressman Jim Kolbe, he was responsible for the Appropriations Committee work - primarily the Treasury, Postal Service and General Government Subcommittee which Congressman Kolbe chaired.  Additionally, he oversaw the legislative staff and had legislative responsibility for defense, law enforcement and the judiciary, immigration, education, currency reform, and banking issues. 

Jason received his bachelor's degree in English from Baylor University.  While serving on Capitol Hill, he was honored to attend the United States Naval War College where he received a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff. 

He is currently serving as an Honorary Commander of the 56th Maintenance Group at Luke Air Force Base.

PDG Experience
Jason joined PDG in December 1998 after moving back to Phoenix from Washington, D.C.  His experiences on Capitol Hill have enabled him to be an effective government advocate, seamlessly navigating clients through the policy making complexities at federal, state and local levels. 
Jason is involved in the in the strategic planning for clients in both the public and private sectors. As part of the PDG lobbying team, Jason’s experience and skill provide him with a broadminded prospective allowing him to identify opportunities within problems and to develop solutions.

Kathy Senseman
602.274.4244
ksenseman@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“PDG has a mixture of talent that produces an enjoyable, friendly team-oriented atmosphere, promotes a high work ethic and develops effective political and communication strategies. All of which translates to incredible results for our clients.”

Background
Kathy began her political involvement during her university studies at the Claremont Colleges. She worked on Capitol Hill and later developed constituent relationships in the district office for U.S. Rep. Bill Thomas (Ret.).  Kathy also volunteered for a local elected official, which ignited her passion for politics. Kathy has worked as a campaign manager, fundraiser, volunteer coordinator and policy advisor.

In 1997, Kathy moved to Arizona and became the executive director of FARE – Fiscal Accountability Reform Efforts, promoting fiscal responsibility in state government.  She then became a public affairs specialist for Southwest Gas in 1998, where she spent ten years working on energy public policy issues and developing strong and lasting relationships with key elected officials on both sides of the aisle.

Kathy is currently the chairperson of the Challenger Center, Arizona Clean and Beautiful and the Arizona Community Action Association.

PDG Experience
Many public affairs professionals measure their success by the legislation they have helped get passed.  However, many times a better litmus test of a good lobbyist is one’s ability to prevent bad bills from becoming law. 

Kathy has demonstrated the unique ability to analyze an issue, identify the impact on a client and develop a strategy to achieve the client’s goals.  Her strong relationships with legislators ensure that PDG client voices are always considered before a decision is made.  As a result, PDG possesses one of the most successful track records lobbying the Arizona Legislature.

K. Dean Howard
602.274.4244      
dhoward@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“PDG provides each client with a competitive edge by guiding them through complicated municipal procurement processes.  We excel at staying current with ongoing and upcoming projects and helping clients prepare for these opportunities.”

Background

Dean is an Arizona native and worked with local commercial and retail developers locally in the 1990’s. He found his way into the public sector by responding to an ad for a data analyst at the County Supervisors Association (CSA). He secured the position and spent the next two years learning about county budgets, revenues and taxes before becoming a lobbyist for the association.

In his seven years as lobbyist for CSA, Dean focused on taxation, budget and personnel issues. He next worked at the state Capitol for six years before then becoming the Chief of Staff for Phoenix Councilman Dave Siebert. At the City of Phoenix, he worked closely with public safety offices on federal anti-crime projects, and later spent time working in the Economic Development Department of the city.

Dean’s involvement with the Arizona Cardinals’ stadium and on land issues related to Luke Air Force Base established his relationship with PDG.

PDG Experience

In 2005, Dean joined the PDG team.  His county and municipal experience is very valuable to PDG clients on local government initiatives and procurement efforts.  Dean has strong management skills which is invaluable to clients with complex projects or issues.

Dean has experience in the private and public sectors and has an appreciation for the challenges private companies face when attempting to do business with the government. Dean helps develop successful strategies and methods for dealing with these issues so PDG clients can achieve their goals.  He understands both sides of an issue, and the necessity for all stakeholders to participate in a positive outcome. 

Leesa Berrens Morrison
602.274.4244
lmorrison@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“We are the problem solvers; our team approach ensures that our clients get creative resolutions quickly.”

Background

Leesa became the first confirmed director of the Arizona Department of Homeland Security in December 2006. She has been an integral part of homeland and border security on national and local levels. Her efforts have included work on counter terrorism, anti-human trafficking and emergency preparedness.

Prior to Leesa’s appointment to the Arizona Department of Homeland Security, she served as the Director of the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. She also has 17 years of experience as an Arizona Assistant Attorney General practicing administrative, civil and criminal law.

PDG Experience

Leesa’s broad background lends itself well to the team environment at PDG. She came to the firm after working as the Arizona Director of Homeland Security, and brought with her a distinct perspective on local, state, and federal issues.

As she was the director of two different state agencies, Leesa possesses an unmatched understanding of the processes involved in working with the government. She guides clients through these complexities quickly and creatively.

Leesa has earned respect for her proven record of bipartisanship on numerous policy issues. She strengthens the bipartisan spirit PDG upholds.

Troy Corder
602.742.4424
tcorder@criticalpublicrelations.com

“Understanding the media, how it works, what reporters need and being able to package information appropriately, are essential for successful communication.”

Background

Troy began working as an intern for Senator John McCain and then worked for two Arizona governors, Fife Symington and Jane Hull.  Troy focused on constituent services and special projects while working for Governor Symington, and performed advance work for Governor Hull, managing the details of her schedule and travel.   As a result, Troy developed and maintained relationships with members of the media throughout the state.

Troy left the Governor’s office to become a promotions manager for a local advertising firm, where he managed public exhibits such as the Arizona Department of Health Services Tobacco Prevention Program.

After being promoted to Account Executive, Troy teamed up with Policy Development Group to win a successful public tax election which created The Tourism and Sports Authority—the entity responsible for the construction of the Arizona Cardinals football stadium.

PDG and CPR Experience

Following the election, Troy joined Policy Development Group and helped establish Critical Public Relations.  Troy brings experience and perspective when developing a media plan for a client.  He clearly understands how reporters think and what they consider a “newsworthy” story and always leverages his media knowledge and relationships to secure the best outcomes for PDG and CPR clients.  To meet the demands of clients concerned with rapid media responses, Troy coordinates the development of crisis communication plans and Hour One protocols for PDG and CPR clients.

Under Troy’s leadership, CPR has designed and implemented several successful initiatives including Proposition 201--the statewide ban of smoking in public places. 

Andy Jacobs
602.472.4424
ajacobs@policydevelopmentgroup.com

"Building great friendships is the foundation to long-term success. Being in the position to team up with the best people on any given project is a natural advantage, and allows for lasting friendships as well."

Background

Andy got his first taste of political life in 1999, when he worked as a college summer intern on Capitol Hill in Senator Jon Kyl’s office.  After graduating in 2002 with a degree in Business and Journalism, Andy moved back to Arizona and began working for the Ahwatukee Foothills News.
Although he covered high school sports and freelanced for the National Horseman, his passion was neither horses nor high school football.  It was politics. When Andy was offered a staff position in Senator Kyl’s Phoenix Office, he enthusiastically accepted.

Andy provided legislative support to the Senator from October 2002 until February 2008 and was deeply involved in rural constituent outreach on a variety of issues.  His experience gained working in Senator Kyl’s office enabled him to develop lasting relationships throughout Arizona.

PDG Experience

During his tenure in Senator Kyl’s office, Andy had several opportunities to collaborate with PDG on rural issues.   Andy joined PDG in 2008 when he decided to pursue a career in public affairs.  Andy’s in-depth understanding of rural Arizona communities and his strong relationship with its citizens are invaluable assets to PDG and our clients.

C. Murphy Hebert
602.274.4244
cmhebert@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“This office is full of exceptional individuals, with obvious strengths and expertise, but this isn’t what makes PDG stand out. It’s the unique combination of these individuals and their talent that makes PDG successful.”

Background

Murphy has a multi-faceted background in communications, politics and policy. After graduation from Arizona State University with an undergraduate degree in Journalism, she moved to Prescott and began work as a reporter for The Daily Courier. While in Prescott, she covered the police beat and was part of the election/political coverage team.  She has also worked as a freelance journalist for several publications in Arizona.

After leaving Prescott and working for two years in the Peoria School District, Murphy moved to the Czech Republic. There she taught English and was a freelance writer for The Prague Post, the country’s only all-English publication.

She returned to the U.S. and earned her master’s degree from American University in Washington, D.C.  While completing her studies, Murphy worked for a Washington-based media watchdog organization as well as several local and national campaigns. She gained policy experience working in the U.S. House of Representatives as a congressional research fellow, focusing on education and health care policy.

PDG Experience

Murphy came to PDG shortly after moving back to Phoenix from Washington, D.C. Her diverse background and strong media experience lend themselves well to the public and media relations, public outreach and campaign projects of the firm.

From her time in Prescott, Murphy developed a working knowledge of rural Arizona media. As an ASU alumna and former reporter for The State Press, she developed strong relationships with many local reporters.

Additionally, Murphy understands the political process. Working on Capitol Hill has given her perspective on how to integrate policy making process and media relations strategy. One of Murphy’s key roles in the firm is to communicate complex issues in a manner the public will understand.

Todd Baughman
602.742.4424
tbaughman@policydevelopmentgroup.com

 “We are unique because we help each other out. Everybody works from a level playing field; PDG employees are created equal.”

Background

Todd began his professional career in public accounting. He earned a degree in accounting from the Master’s College in Santa Clarita California, after which he worked as an accountant in both California and Hawaii.

He moved back to Arizona in 2005 and transitioned into politics when he became the deputy treasurer for Senator Jon Kyl’s reelection campaign in 2006. As Deputy Treasurer, Todd was responsible for the finances of a $15 million campaign, managing financial staff and coordinating financial reporting to the Federal Election Commission.  He also advised the campaign manager and Senator on the campaign’s fiscal and budgetary status.

PDG Experience

Todd is a key member of our state legislative team.  With his accounting background, Todd brings a valuable perspective to the firm and a dedicated work ethic which helps team members analyze issues and develop the best strategies and outcomes for PDG clients. 

Todd has developed excellent relationships in rural Arizona and coordinates rural and regional initiatives.  His strong people skills have helped PDG clients establish and maintain key relationships throughout Arizona.

Karen “Betsy” Keary
602.274.4244        
bkeary@policydevelopmentgroup.com

“I cannot stress enough how important it is that our clients know they are a priority and that we are here to help them achieve their goals.”

Background

Betsy has an impressive background in customer service and office management. She moved to Phoenix from Baltimore, Maryland where she managed a golf pro shop for five years.  As Manager, she interacted with vendors, maintained inventory and coordinated event planning, fundraising and staff .

Before coming to Arizona, Betsy spent 12 years at Keary Advertising organizing and tracking orders, processing payroll and maintaining employee records.  She also developed a cost analysis program to improve the business’ bottom line.

Betsy came to PDG from the Arizona Automobile Dealers Association, where she worked for nearly two years monitoring supplies, maintaining the company’s records and supplies and distributing newsletters.

PDG Experience

Betsy provides integral support for the entire PDG operation.  Her constant attention to detail helps keep the internal workings of PDG operating at the highest level.

Betsy utilizes her organizational skills for event planning, client conference coordination, scheduling and general staff support.

She is the first person clients meet when they come through the doors at PDG and Betsy ensures that everyone is a priority.