Hill+Knowlton Strategies (H+K), one of the world’s leading public relations agencies, has appointed former Director of Strategic Communications for the House Judiciary Committee, Daniel Schwarz, as Senior Vice President of H+K’s US public affairs practice. The appointment elevates H+K’s expertise in the US political landscape as the firm continues a successful year of accelerated growth in the market.
Schwarz brings an unparalleled depth of experience within the intersection of communications, advocacy and public policy. Working on some of the most sensitive and high stakes issues in recent years, providing communications, messaging, and strategic advice he has led media and communications for the House Judiciary Committee. Prior to his work with the Judiciary Committee, Schwarz handled policy communications around various local, national, and international issues, including freight and public transportation, civil rights and civil liberty protections, and foreign policy.
“To me, public affairs is more than just lobbying and government relations. It’s an all- encompassing communications practice that we can apply effectively to the full range of clients at H+K, regardless of industry sector,” said Schwarz. “I look forward to broadening our clients’ perception of modern public affairs and helping continue to drive the expansion of H+K’s innovative public affairs offering.”
As a specialist in strategic communications, messaging and media, Schwarz has worked with political, corporate, NGO and philanthropic clients in the United States and abroad for close to a decade. Schwarz’s political background stretches over 20 elections in eight different countries. He has worked with leading international and domestic teams managing paid and earned media campaigns, research and data analytics, rapid response and on-the-ground implementation for political parties and candidates, as well as working with corporate, nonprofit and start-up clients.
“Bringing both domestic and international experience to our offering, Daniel will provide our US and Global clients with his unique analysis and insights covering legislative, regulatory, and political issues of significance to deliver public affairs and PR advisory support,” said Richard Millar, H+K Global President and CEO of The Americas. “With such a strong expert on our roster, I have even greater confidence in our ability to deliver world-class public affairs capabilities that will empower our clients in today’s extraordinary environment.”
The appointment of Schwarz follows a series of important hires to the agency as H+K continues to build momentum in the US. In the past six months, H+K has recruited Bridgette O’Neal to lead US Diversity, Equity + Inclusion, John Quick as SVP, Healthcare and most recently, Rob Ferris as US Head of Energy + Industrials, among many other new team members.