Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck is pleased to announce that Christopher C. Hull, Ph.D., has joined the firm’s Public Affairs practice as a director, public affairs in the Washington, D.C. office.
Hull joins Brownstein from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), where he most recently served as assistant secretary of the Office of Partnership and Engagement (OPE) and, prior to that, as the director of crisis communications in the Office of Public Affairs (OPA).
“Clients are navigating an advocacy environment where policy and public opinion increasingly move at the same speed,” said Public Affairs Chair Max Hamel. “Chris brings decades of experience across government and the corporate world, and the ability to combine campaign management, policy expertise and communications discipline that our clients need.”
“Chris’ background leading crisis communications, grassroots campaigns and strategic public affairs efforts across federal, state and corporate arenas will strengthen our ability to help clients shape the public conversation, mobilize stakeholders and move policy,” added Government Relations Department Cochair Will Moschella.
Hull brings more than 30 years of experience in public affairs, strategic communications, grassroots advocacy and policy campaigns, having held senior roles in federal and state government, public relations firms and public affairs organizations. He has led high-stakes communications and advocacy efforts for government entities, Fortune 50 companies, national security organizations and elected officials, combining policy insight with message development, stakeholder engagement and campaign execution.
Throughout his career, Hull has advised organizations at the intersection of policy, public opinion and reputation. He founded and led Issue Management, Inc., where he served as president, and has led public affairs campaigns on regulatory, litigation and grassroots matters. His government experience includes service as chief of staff and press secretary in the U.S. House of Representatives, legislative aide in the U.S. Senate and majority caucus staff director in the Iowa State Senate
“I am excited to join Brownstein’s Public Affairs team and work alongside professionals who understand the importance of integrated policy, political and corporate communications services,” said Hull. “Brownstein’s team in Washington is known for its ability to achieve results for clients, and I look forward to contributing to that work across the firm’s state, federal and international practice areas.”
Hull is also an author and educator. His publications include “Grassroots Rules: How the Iowa Caucus Helps Elect American Presidents,” a peer-reviewed book published by Stanford University Press, and he has taught courses and seminars on public policy management, public opinion, international relations, and campaigns and elections at Georgetown University, George Washington University, Catholic University of America and the Institute of World Politics.
Hull earned his bachelor’s degree from Harvard University magna cum laude and a Ph.D. from Georgetown University with distinction.