New York, NY – SKDK today announced veteran strategist Patrick Brennan will join the firm as a Principal in the public affairs practice, based in New York.
Brennan has held senior leadership roles across New York City government, global philanthropy and Fortune 500 companies, including serving as Chief Operating Officer of The Rockefeller Foundation and Vice President at Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, where he led executive communications and corporate social responsibility efforts.
“Patrick is one of the smartest strategists I’ve ever worked with and will supercharge our public affairs practice with his experience, insights and relationships across many sectors,” said Mike Morey, President of SKDK.
Kerri Lyon, Partner, added “He’s someone who’s run large, complex organizations — not just advised them. He understands how decisions get made and what it takes to follow through. We are so excited for him to join our amazing team.”
Brennan most recently advised a range of clients as an independent consultant, working with major professional sports leagues, elite universities and several foundations on strategic communications, operations and stakeholder engagement.
Earlier in his career, Brennan spent several years working for Mayor Michael Bloomberg, as a Senior Advisor to his Mayoral campaigns, and at City Hall, he served as Chief of Staff for Government Affairs and Communications, followed by a stint as Commissioner of the Community Assistance Unit. He began his career in politics as a campaign aide on Chuck Schumer’s first Senate campaign. He spent the next six years running political campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels, often on behalf of his employers in organized labor — SEIU and AFSCME.
“As a client and a partner, I’ve had the privilege of working with Mike, Kerri and the SKDK team for years. Their strategic acumen and hands-on approach to each client consistently drives impactful results,” said Brennan. “Their commitment to excellence and integrity sets them apart and I am eager to dive in and contribute.”