• 

  Annika Abdella

  Annika graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Political Science and Business Administration, along with minors in Psychology and Public Health. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding complex global systems and advocating for social equity, culminating in a senior thesis researching the intersection of sexual violence and genocide through the lens of wartime rape. She brings hands-on experience across both the financial and nonprofit sectors, having completed co-ops at an asset management firm and a grassroots grant-giving organization. At Northeastern, Annika was actively involved in the university’s impact investing fund, helping to align capital with purpose to drive sustainable change. She was also an engaged member of her sorority, contributing to community-building and leadership initiatives. Outside of work, Annika is an avid reader, museum enthusiast, and passionate traveler. She’s a collector of crafting hobbies, a recent half-marathon finisher (with hopefully more to come), and a die-hard Red Sox fan.

  Associate,
  Capital Markets

  annika@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Annika graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Political Science and Business Administration, along with minors in Psychology and Public Health. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding complex global systems and advocating for social equity, culminating in a senior thesis researching the intersection of sexual violence and genocide through the lens of wartime rape.

  She brings hands-on experience across both the financial and nonprofit sectors, having completed co-ops at an asset management firm and a grassroots grant-giving organization. At Northeastern, Annika was actively involved in the university’s impact investing fund, helping to align capital with purpose to drive sustainable change. She was also an engaged member of her sorority, contributing to community-building and leadership initiatives.

  Outside of work, Annika is an avid reader, museum enthusiast, and passionate traveler. She’s a collector of crafting hobbies, a recent half-marathon finisher (with hopefully more to come), and a die-hard Red Sox fan.

• 

  Shea Agnew

  Shea Agnew is a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy, where he leads the firm’s earned media strategy and executive positioning work. A storyteller by nature, clients turn to Shea for creative ideation, speechwriting, byline composition and placement, and corporate narrative development.  Shea joined Breakwater after spending four years in Suva, Fiji, where he headed communications for the Fijian government. As speechwriter to the Prime Minister and advisor to the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, he projected the voice of Fiji and other Small Island Developing States on the global stage, amplifying the stories of the world’s most climate-vulnerable populations.  Of note, Shea’s portfolio includes remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, the UNFCCC Conference of Parties climate summits (COP23, 24, and 25), World Bank Group Annual Meetings and Small States Forums, the Asian Development Bank Annual Meetings, the inaugural UN Habitat Assembly, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the World Urban Forum, and the Pacific Islands Forum. His audiences have included some of the world’s most influential figures –– various heads of state and government, royalty, secretaries-general, and major corporate leaders.  Shea’s experience covers issues of immense geopolitical significance and complex intercultural sensitivity, from climate change to interfaith healing. He worked on the ground in the wake of the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand and Easter bombings in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He represented Fiji in the planning of its country exhibition at EXPO 2020 Dubai, and was a member of the Fijian delegation at landmark international climate negotiations in both Tuvalu and Spain.  His career in strategic communications began at Edelman, where he specialized in executive positioning, C-suite thought leadership, and corporate branding. He worked to publicize the creation of the Star in Frisco, the multi-billion-dollar headquarters and practice facility of the Dallas Cowboys, from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting.  Shea majored in international studies and government at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. While there, he studied marine biology in Culebra, Puerto Rico, Eastern culture in Beijing, China, and ancient history in Greece. He now splits his time between the U.S. and Brazil. 

  Vice
  President

  shea@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Shea Agnew is a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy, where he leads the firm’s earned media strategy and executive positioning work. A storyteller by nature, clients turn to Shea for creative ideation, speechwriting, byline composition and placement, and corporate narrative development. 

  Shea joined Breakwater after spending four years in Suva, Fiji, where he headed communications for the Fijian government. As speechwriter to the Prime Minister and advisor to the Attorney-General and Minister for Economy, he projected the voice of Fiji and other Small Island Developing States on the global stage, amplifying the stories of the world’s most climate-vulnerable populations. 

  Of note, Shea’s portfolio includes remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, the UNFCCC Conference of Parties climate summits (COP23, 24, and 25), World Bank Group Annual Meetings and Small States Forums, the Asian Development Bank Annual Meetings, the inaugural UN Habitat Assembly, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the World Urban Forum, and the Pacific Islands Forum. His audiences have included some of the world’s most influential figures –– various heads of state and government, royalty, secretaries-general, and major corporate leaders. 

  Shea’s experience covers issues of immense geopolitical significance and complex intercultural sensitivity, from climate change to interfaith healing. He worked on the ground in the wake of the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand and Easter bombings in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He represented Fiji in the planning of its country exhibition at EXPO 2020 Dubai, and was a member of the Fijian delegation at landmark international climate negotiations in both Tuvalu and Spain. 

  His career in strategic communications began at Edelman, where he specialized in executive positioning, C-suite thought leadership, and corporate branding. He worked to publicize the creation of the Star in Frisco, the multi-billion-dollar headquarters and practice facility of the Dallas Cowboys, from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting. 

  Shea majored in international studies and government at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. While there, he studied marine biology in Culebra, Puerto Rico, Eastern culture in Beijing, China, and ancient history in Greece. He now splits his time between the U.S. and Brazil. 

• 

  Anurag Andra

  Anurag serves as a Director within Breakwater Strategy’s Research and Insights team. He develops and manages strategic quantitative and qualitative research projects to mine valuable insights for clients looking to navigate the vast landscape of public opinion. He is experienced and adept at producing research proposals, surveys and discussion guides, data infrastructure and analysis materials, and insights reports in a wide variety of mediums and styles.  Prior to joining Breakwater Strategy, Anurag worked for several years in the market research and analytics space, at firms such as GfK, Greenwald Research, and IRi, where he oversaw and supported a plethora of diverse research projects and initiatives. He also spent four years in the creative writing and publishing space. While earning his Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of Colorado, Anurag served as a graduate research assistant with the Ritual Arts and Pedagogy Lab, as well as a graduate teaching assistant with the English Department. During his three-year tenure at the university, he published multiple short stories and wrote his first book, Submarine (Split/Lip Press, 2022).  Anurag holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. He was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Bridgewater, NJ. He is a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, still clinging (tenuously) to the glory of Superbowl LII. In his spare time, Anurag enjoys watching and talking about football, writing fiction, and spending time with his wife, friends, and family. 

  Director
  

  anurag@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Anurag serves as a Director within Breakwater Strategy’s Research and Insights team. He develops and manages strategic quantitative and qualitative research projects to mine valuable insights for clients looking to navigate the vast landscape of public opinion. He is experienced and adept at producing research proposals, surveys and discussion guides, data infrastructure and analysis materials, and insights reports in a wide variety of mediums and styles. 

  Prior to joining Breakwater Strategy, Anurag worked for several years in the market research and analytics space, at firms such as GfK, Greenwald Research, and IRi, where he oversaw and supported a plethora of diverse research projects and initiatives. He also spent four years in the creative writing and publishing space. While earning his Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of Colorado, Anurag served as a graduate research assistant with the Ritual Arts and Pedagogy Lab, as well as a graduate teaching assistant with the English Department. During his three-year tenure at the university, he published multiple short stories and wrote his first book, Submarine (Split/Lip Press, 2022). 

  Anurag holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh. He was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Bridgewater, NJ. He is a die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, still clinging (tenuously) to the glory of Superbowl LII. In his spare time, Anurag enjoys watching and talking about football, writing fiction, and spending time with his wife, friends, and family. 

• 

  Rob Bartnichak

  Rob is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy. He brings experience in corporate communications, advocacy, and issue management. Throughout his career, he has helped advocacy organizations, government agencies, and corporations find effective messages and deliver them to key audiences. Prior to Breakwater, Rob was an Account Director at CLYDE, a communications and public affairs agency based in Washington, DC. At CLYDE, he worked in the healthcare space alongside Fortune 500 companies and a government initiative and spearheaded an agency podcast. Before CLYDE, Rob served as a Senior Manager, Digital Media and Communications at the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform. He earned an M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication and a double major B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication/Political Science, both from George Washington University. When not in the office, you can find him watching the New Jersey Devils, New York Yankees, and New York Giants, reading the latest history book, or looking for his golf ball in the woods.

  Associate
  Director

  rob@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Rob is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy. He brings experience in corporate communications, advocacy, and issue management. Throughout his career, he has helped advocacy organizations, government agencies, and corporations find effective messages and deliver them to key audiences.

  Prior to Breakwater, Rob was an Account Director at CLYDE, a communications and public affairs agency based in Washington, DC. At CLYDE, he worked in the healthcare space alongside Fortune 500 companies and a government initiative and spearheaded an agency podcast. Before CLYDE, Rob served as a Senior Manager, Digital Media and Communications at the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform. He earned an M.A. in Media and Strategic Communication and a double major B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication/Political Science, both from George Washington University.

  When not in the office, you can find him watching the New Jersey Devils, New York Yankees, and New York Giants, reading the latest history book, or looking for his golf ball in the woods.

• 

  Carly Bell

  As an Associate Director at Breakwater, Carly assists staff in the development and execution of strategic communications campaigns for a broad array of clients. Her main responsibilities include content development, media monitoring, research, and analysis.  Prior to joining the Breakwater team, Carly worked as a legal writing and revision specialist at Hudson Business Immigration, an employment-based immigration law firm, where she prepared legal documents for clients’ green card applications. She has experience communicating around technical scientific research in a variety of industries, including energy, medicine, technology, and more.  Carly graduated from Carleton College with distinction in Religion. While at Carleton, Carly worked at the Center for Community and Civic Engagement, interned with an environmental non-profit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and studied global security and religious pluralism in Dakar, Senegal. Originally from Chapel Hill, NC, she is a Tarheel, born and bred. 

  Associate
  Director

  carly@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As an Associate Director at Breakwater, Carly assists staff in the development and execution of strategic communications campaigns for a broad array of clients. Her main responsibilities include content development, media monitoring, research, and analysis. 

  Prior to joining the Breakwater team, Carly worked as a legal writing and revision specialist at Hudson Business Immigration, an employment-based immigration law firm, where she prepared legal documents for clients’ green card applications. She has experience communicating around technical scientific research in a variety of industries, including energy, medicine, technology, and more. 

  Carly graduated from Carleton College with distinction in Religion. While at Carleton, Carly worked at the Center for Community and Civic Engagement, interned with an environmental non-profit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and studied global security and religious pluralism in Dakar, Senegal. Originally from Chapel Hill, NC, she is a Tarheel, born and bred. 

• 

  Kim Belval

  Leveraging her keen analytical acumen and diverse experience in business strategy, Kim is focused on delivering impactful solutions to our Capital Market clients’ most critical challenges. Kim joined Breakwater with extensive experience in financial services where she has held roles advising senior executives across Strategy, Business Intelligence, Finance, Product, and Market Intelligence. Over her career, Kim has developed multiyear business strategies for divisions ranging from $5B to $50B in AUA. She is adept at identifying growth opportunities and designing business plans to capitalize on those opportunities through redefining target segments, product offerings and distribution channels that have stronger market fit. She understands the tradeoffs ever present in the business environment and has designed mathematical and financial models to understand the most efficient use of capital to achieve desired results. Kim graduated summa cum laude from the University of Connecticut, with a B.S. in Marketing and a B.A. in English. In recognition of her academic success and professional experiences, she was a student inductee to the School of Business Hall of Fame. She also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Connecticut School of Business with concentrations in Management and Marketing. Expertise: Market Research & Competitive Intelligence Business Strategy Financial Planning & Analysis Product and Business Development

  Vice
  President, Capital Markets

  kim@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Leveraging her keen analytical acumen and diverse experience in business strategy, Kim is focused on delivering impactful solutions to our Capital Market clients’ most critical challenges.

  Kim joined Breakwater with extensive experience in financial services where she has held roles advising senior executives across Strategy, Business Intelligence, Finance, Product, and Market Intelligence. Over her career, Kim has developed multiyear business strategies for divisions ranging from $5B to $50B in AUA. She is adept at identifying growth opportunities and designing business plans to capitalize on those opportunities through redefining target segments, product offerings and distribution channels that have stronger market fit. She understands the tradeoffs ever present in the business environment and has designed mathematical and financial models to understand the most efficient use of capital to achieve desired results.

  Kim graduated summa cum laude from the University of Connecticut, with a B.S. in Marketing and a B.A. in English. In recognition of her academic success and professional experiences, she was a student inductee to the School of Business Hall of Fame. She also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Connecticut School of Business with concentrations in Management and Marketing.

  Expertise:

  • Market Research & Competitive Intelligence
  • Business Strategy
  • Financial Planning & Analysis
  • Product and Business Development

• 

  Arik Ben-Zvi

  Arik is the President, CEO and founder of Breakwater Strategy, a boutique strategic communications firm specializing in helping clients navigate the complex conversations of today’s turbulent environment.  An experienced strategic advisor, Arik partners with client’s leadership teams and boards to solve critical business challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. That work includes developing and communicating compelling enterprise-level narratives, managing complex issues and crises, and building strong two-way relationships and coalitions with diverse stakeholders.  Formerly, Arik was an Executive Managing Director and a member of the founding team at The Glover Park Group (GPG). Arik’s clients included some of the world’s largest and most dynamic businesses as they undergo periods of historic change in their industries, markets and regulatory environments. Past and current clients include Disney, Anheuser-Busch, USAA, Verizon, Ford Motor Company, UnitedHealthcare and 21st Century Fox.  Over the course of a his nearly twenty years of professional experience, Arik has helped dozens of clients secure key business objectives, including landmark legislative and regulatory outcomes, successful navigation of potentially damaging crises, and measurable improvements to reputation among consumers, opinion leaders, investors and employees.  In addition to his client-facing responsibilities, as President and CEO, Arik is responsible for developing the firm’s growth strategy with a focus on innovation, new business partnerships, knowledge management, and continuous improvement of client service.  Prior to founding Breakwater, Arik worked on domestic and international political campaigns, including the Gore-Lieberman campaign and Prime Minister Ehud Barak’s 2001 campaign in Israel. Arik holds a BA in History and Political Science from Tel Aviv University. Arik serves on the board of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown University. He lives in Washington, D.C. with his wife, Victoria, and three children. 

  PRESIDENT,
  CEO & FOUnder

  arik@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Arik is the President, CEO and founder of Breakwater Strategy, a boutique strategic communications firm specializing in helping clients navigate the complex conversations of today’s turbulent environment. 

  An experienced strategic advisor, Arik partners with client’s leadership teams and boards to solve critical business challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. That work includes developing and communicating compelling enterprise-level narratives, managing complex issues and crises, and building strong two-way relationships and coalitions with diverse stakeholders. 

  Formerly, Arik was an Executive Managing Director and a member of the founding team at The Glover Park Group (GPG). Arik’s clients included some of the world’s largest and most dynamic businesses as they undergo periods of historic change in their industries, markets and regulatory environments. Past and current clients include Disney, Anheuser-Busch, USAA, Verizon, Ford Motor Company, UnitedHealthcare and 21st Century Fox. 

  Over the course of a his nearly twenty years of professional experience, Arik has helped dozens of clients secure key business objectives, including landmark legislative and regulatory outcomes, successful navigation of potentially damaging crises, and measurable improvements to reputation among consumers, opinion leaders, investors and employees. 

  In addition to his client-facing responsibilities, as President and CEO, Arik is responsible for developing the firm’s growth strategy with a focus on innovation, new business partnerships, knowledge management, and continuous improvement of client service. 

  Prior to founding Breakwater, Arik worked on domestic and international political campaigns, including the Gore-Lieberman campaign and Prime Minister Ehud Barak’s 2001 campaign in Israel. Arik holds a BA in History and Political Science from Tel Aviv University. Arik serves on the board of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown University. He lives in Washington, D.C. with his wife, Victoria, and three children. 

• 

  Tina Bernardi

  Leveraging her deep and broad experience in research, Tina designs market-leading approaches to develop research-driven intelligence that enable clients to best address the needs of corporate stakeholders through sharpened strategic communications priorities and best practices. Prior to joining Breakwater, Tina was a Director at a leading data-driven investor relations consulting firm working closely with project directors and managing research workflow for the core perception study business. Previously, she worked in several research-oriented roles, including investigative research and as a librarian in both public and university libraries. Tina received her Master of Library Science from Southern Connecticut State University and her Bachelor of Arts in English & Cinema Studies from Northeastern University. Expertise: Capital Markets Investor Relations Sell Side & Buy Side Perception/Shareholder Research Process Excellence All Sectors and Market Capitalizations

  Vice
  President, Capital Markets

  Tina@Breakwaterstrategy.com

  Leveraging her deep and broad experience in research, Tina designs market-leading approaches to develop research-driven intelligence that enable clients to best address the needs of corporate stakeholders through sharpened strategic communications priorities and best practices.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Tina was a Director at a leading data-driven investor relations consulting firm working closely with project directors and managing research workflow for the core perception study business. Previously, she worked in several research-oriented roles, including investigative research and as a librarian in both public and university libraries.

  Tina received her Master of Library Science from Southern Connecticut State University and her Bachelor of Arts in English & Cinema Studies from Northeastern University.

  Expertise:

  • Capital Markets
  • Investor Relations
  • Sell Side & Buy Side
  • Perception/Shareholder Research
  • Process Excellence
  • All Sectors and Market Capitalizations

• 

  Henry Brill

  Henry Brill is a Director at Breakwater Strategy, where his portfolio focuses on emerging technology and financial services. At Breakwater, he designs strategic communications campaigns for high-profile startups and Fortune 500s navigating complex business and policy challenges. Combining deep experience in media engagement with a broad, multidisciplinary approach, Henry advises clients across the firm on U.S. public policy communications, corporate reputation, and rapid-response issues management.  Prior to joining Breakwater, Henry worked in communications at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University, where he led a publication cited in the New York Times and collaborated with prominent policymakers and scholars on issues of global concern. His international perspective was further shaped by studying Turkish in Azerbaijan through a Critical Language Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. A member of Phi Beta Kappa, Henry graduated summa cum laude from Kenyon College and authored an award-winning honors thesis on early modern Islamic history, later published by Columbia University Press. Based in Washington, DC, he can often be found at [solidcore] for pilates, Jane Jane for craft cocktails, and Pearl’s for a Saturday bagel (egg-and-cheese on poppy seed, never toasted). 

  Director
  

  henry@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Henry Brill is a Director at Breakwater Strategy, where his portfolio focuses on emerging technology and financial services. At Breakwater, he designs strategic communications campaigns for high-profile startups and Fortune 500s navigating complex business and policy challenges. Combining deep experience in media engagement with a broad, multidisciplinary approach, Henry advises clients across the firm on U.S. public policy communications, corporate reputation, and rapid-response issues management. 

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Henry worked in communications at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University, where he led a publication cited in the New York Times and collaborated with prominent policymakers and scholars on issues of global concern. His international perspective was further shaped by studying Turkish in Azerbaijan through a Critical Language Scholarship, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.

  A member of Phi Beta Kappa, Henry graduated summa cum laude from Kenyon College and authored an award-winning honors thesis on early modern Islamic history, later published by Columbia University Press. Based in Washington, DC, he can often be found at [solidcore] for pilates, Jane Jane for craft cocktails, and Pearl’s for a Saturday bagel (egg-and-cheese on poppy seed, never toasted). 

• 

  Riley Burke

  Riley Burke is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy. Based in San Francisco, she leverages her extensive background in writing, public relations, and content creation to support senior staff and clients in meeting daily and long-term goals by way of media monitoring and analysis, research, and administrative work. In June 2024, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from UC Santa Barbara where she earned a bachelor’s in communication with a minor in professional writing and journalism. During her time in college, she served as a staff writer with the Daily Nexus, UCSB’s student-run publication, and as an arts & entertainment reporter with the Santa Barbara Independent, the city’s leading newspaper. She also worked as a publicity assistant with UCSB Arts & Lectures, the largest live entertainment organization located between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Prior to joining Breakwater, Riley held multiple internships across entertainment, politics, and retail spaces. As a media relations intern with HBO and Max she supported high level campaigns for tentpole series including “The Last of Us” and “House of the Dragon.” She also spent time as a publicity assistant with HJ-PR, a boutique PR agency, and as a press intern with the Speaker of the California State Assembly’s office. In her free time, Riley can be found writing nonfiction essays on pop culture, reading Joan Didion, trying her best to learn to cook, and waiting very patiently for the day her hometown team, the Sacramento Kings, finally wins a championship.

  Associate
  

  riley@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Riley Burke is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy. Based in San Francisco, she leverages her extensive background in writing, public relations, and content creation to support senior staff and clients in meeting daily and long-term goals by way of media monitoring and analysis, research, and administrative work.

  In June 2024, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from UC Santa Barbara where she earned a bachelor’s in communication with a minor in professional writing and journalism. During her time in college, she served as a staff writer with the Daily Nexus, UCSB’s student-run publication, and as an arts & entertainment reporter with the Santa Barbara Independent, the city’s leading newspaper. She also worked as a publicity assistant with UCSB Arts & Lectures, the largest live entertainment organization located between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Riley held multiple internships across entertainment, politics, and retail spaces. As a media relations intern with HBO and Max she supported high level campaigns for tentpole series including “The Last of Us” and “House of the Dragon.” She also spent time as a publicity assistant with HJ-PR, a boutique PR agency, and as a press intern with the Speaker of the California State Assembly’s office.

  In her free time, Riley can be found writing nonfiction essays on pop culture, reading Joan Didion, trying her best to learn to cook, and waiting very patiently for the day her hometown team, the Sacramento Kings, finally wins a championship.

• 

  Chris Byrne

  Chris Byrne is a Managing Director at Breakwater Strategy with two decades of experience working at the highest levels of government, politics and cable news. Chris is an expert in crisis communications, media training, speechwriting and brand development.  For eight years, Chris held various roles at the Fox News Channel and was the Senior Producer of the network’s highest-rated primetime show during his tenure. In this position, he was the principal advisor to the host, produced live broadcasts and developed content for thousands of hours of programming during the most consequential news events of the 21st century. Chris also worked with network executives to relaunch Fox’s weekend primetime lineup, produced shows on-location at Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles and secured exclusive interviews with high-profile figures from former presidents to some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.   Throughout the 2016 Presidential Campaign, Chris was a trusted communications advisor to Donald J. Trump and the Trump family.  Chris also spearheaded the campaign’s groundbreaking efforts to strategically engage with local and regional media outlets to reach critical swing state voters. In addition, he helped develop and manage the live remote television studio inside the campaign’s headquarters at Trump Tower in New York City. Following Trump’s historic victory, Chris was a key member of the Presidential Transition Team where he served as a national spokesman and led rapid response efforts for major cabinet nominees.  Later in his career, as a Vice President at Prosek Partners, Chris established the firm’s first public affairs and government relations advisory services for clients. He also directed executive visibility programs and led media training sessions, enhancing the public profiles of several prominent global financial services leaders.  He is also the founder of West Wing Strategies, a strategic communications firm that provided earned media opportunities, speechwriting services and innovative thought leadership initiatives to clients across various industries.  Chris began his career in Washington, serving four years in the George W. Bush Administration as a White House Spokesman and Special Assistant to the White House Press Secretary. As the top aide to Dana Perino, Chris played a pivotal role in providing counsel to Dana prior to her daily televised press briefings. Prior to this, the President appointed Chris as Deputy Associate Director of the Office of Presidential Personnel.  A proud graduate of the University of Delaware, Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He resides outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

  Managing
  Director

  chris@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Chris Byrne is a Managing Director at Breakwater Strategy with two decades of experience working at the highest levels of government, politics and cable news. Chris is an expert in crisis communications, media training, speechwriting and brand development. 

  For eight years, Chris held various roles at the Fox News Channel and was the Senior Producer of the network’s highest-rated primetime show during his tenure. In this position, he was the principal advisor to the host, produced live broadcasts and developed content for thousands of hours of programming during the most consequential news events of the 21st century. Chris also worked with network executives to relaunch Fox’s weekend primetime lineup, produced shows on-location at Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles and secured exclusive interviews with high-profile figures from former presidents to some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment.  

  Throughout the 2016 Presidential Campaign, Chris was a trusted communications advisor to Donald J. Trump and the Trump family.  Chris also spearheaded the campaign’s groundbreaking efforts to strategically engage with local and regional media outlets to reach critical swing state voters. In addition, he helped develop and manage the live remote television studio inside the campaign’s headquarters at Trump Tower in New York City. Following Trump’s historic victory, Chris was a key member of the Presidential Transition Team where he served as a national spokesman and led rapid response efforts for major cabinet nominees. 

  Later in his career, as a Vice President at Prosek Partners, Chris established the firm’s first public affairs and government relations advisory services for clients. He also directed executive visibility programs and led media training sessions, enhancing the public profiles of several prominent global financial services leaders. 

  He is also the founder of West Wing Strategies, a strategic communications firm that provided earned media opportunities, speechwriting services and innovative thought leadership initiatives to clients across various industries. 

  Chris began his career in Washington, serving four years in the George W. Bush Administration as a White House Spokesman and Special Assistant to the White House Press Secretary. As the top aide to Dana Perino, Chris played a pivotal role in providing counsel to Dana prior to her daily televised press briefings. Prior to this, the President appointed Chris as Deputy Associate Director of the Office of Presidential Personnel. 

  A proud graduate of the University of Delaware, Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. He resides outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 

• 

  Joe Carberry

  Joe Carberry is a Partner at Breakwater Strategy, a strategic insights and communications consultancy focused on helping organizations navigate high-risk, high-reward moments with a combination of research-driven insights and strategic counsel at the intersection of business strategy, public policy, the capital markets and the public conversation. For more than 25 years, Carberry has built a strong track record helping organizations engage their most important constituencies, manage complex issues, and drive measurable business outcomes. His experience spans virtually every aspect of communications and marketing across various industries, in markets around the world. He has led initiatives that define and differentiate brands, build reputation, drive growth, manage risk, shape policy, engage employees, and navigate change. Carberry’s experience includes working with some of the world’s leading brands, both in-house and as an external advisor. Before Breakwater, Carberry led the Corporate Relations function for The Charles Schwab Corporation, and co-led the firm’s marketing department. Prior to Schwab, Carberry was head of global communications for eBay Marketplaces; head of global public affairs at Visa Inc.; a partner at Brunswick Group; and President of the Western U.S. Region at MSLGROUP. He has worked extensively in financial services and technology as well as various other sectors. Carberry began his career in politics, working on the re-election campaign for California Gov. Pete Wilson and serving as deputy press secretary to San Diego Mayor Susan Golding. He holds an MBA from Pepperdine University and a BA in journalism and graphic design from San Diego State University. He is a member of the advisory board for the SDSU School of Journalism and Media Studies.

  Partner
  

  joe@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Joe Carberry is a Partner at Breakwater Strategy, a strategic insights and communications consultancy focused on helping organizations navigate high-risk, high-reward moments with a combination of research-driven insights and strategic counsel at the intersection of business strategy, public policy, the capital markets and the public conversation.

  For more than 25 years, Carberry has built a strong track record helping organizations engage their most important constituencies, manage complex issues, and drive measurable business outcomes. His experience spans virtually every aspect of communications and marketing across various industries, in markets around the world. He has led initiatives that define and differentiate brands, build reputation, drive growth, manage risk, shape policy, engage employees, and navigate change.

  Carberry’s experience includes working with some of the world’s leading brands, both in-house and as an external advisor. Before Breakwater, Carberry led the Corporate Relations function for The Charles Schwab Corporation, and co-led the firm’s marketing department. Prior to Schwab, Carberry was head of global communications for eBay Marketplaces; head of global public affairs at Visa Inc.; a partner at Brunswick Group; and President of the Western U.S. Region at MSLGROUP. He has worked extensively in financial services and technology as well as various other sectors. Carberry began his career in politics, working on the re-election campaign for California Gov. Pete Wilson and serving as deputy press secretary to San Diego Mayor Susan Golding.

  He holds an MBA from Pepperdine University and a BA in journalism and graphic design from San Diego State University. He is a member of the advisory board for the SDSU School of Journalism and Media Studies.

• 

  Michael Colton

  An associate with Breakwater, Michael supports clients with day-to-day media and communications needs, including content development, coverage monitoring, and ad-hoc research requests. Michael joined the Breakwater team in February of 2024. Prior to coming aboard, he worked as a Corporate Communications intern with the Zeno Group, where he helped identify and articulate thought leadership and media relations strategies for clients ranging from leading biotech firms to top skincare brands. In addition to PR and communications experience, Michael has a variety of experience in content marketing and social media strategy. In 2023, he spearheaded social media strategy for the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association, a professional association of over 15,000 members; while in college, Michael worked as a content development specialist for Credibly Retail Capital, where he developed and executed organic social content and thought leadership pieces on behalf of the mid-sized credit firm. Michael graduated from Columbia University in 2022 with a major in History and a concentration in Economics. While in school, Michael served as an editor for the Blue & White, Columbia’s oldest literary magazine as well as a content supervisor for the Columbia Journal of Politics and Society. Additionally, he worked as a research and tech assistant in Columbia’s library system, where he connected students and faculty with scholarship resources in support of their academic work. Raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Michael is a die-hard Chicago Bears fan, in spite of their long history of mediocrity.

  Associate
  

  michael@breakwaterstrategy.com

  An associate with Breakwater, Michael supports clients with day-to-day media and communications needs, including content development, coverage monitoring, and ad-hoc research requests.

  Michael joined the Breakwater team in February of 2024. Prior to coming aboard, he worked as a Corporate Communications intern with the Zeno Group, where he helped identify and articulate thought leadership and media relations strategies for clients ranging from leading biotech firms to top skincare brands.

  In addition to PR and communications experience, Michael has a variety of experience in content marketing and social media strategy. In 2023, he spearheaded social media strategy for the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association, a professional association of over 15,000 members; while in college, Michael worked as a content development specialist for Credibly Retail Capital, where he developed and executed organic social content and thought leadership pieces on behalf of the mid-sized credit firm.

  Michael graduated from Columbia University in 2022 with a major in History and a concentration in Economics. While in school, Michael served as an editor for the Blue & White, Columbia’s oldest literary magazine as well as a content supervisor for the Columbia Journal of Politics and Society. Additionally, he worked as a research and tech assistant in Columbia’s library system, where he connected students and faculty with scholarship resources in support of their academic work.

  Raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Michael is a die-hard Chicago Bears fan, in spite of their long history of mediocrity.

• 

  Patrick Conley

  Patrick is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy, where he works with clients on stakeholder engagement, organizational strategy and reputation management. He brings experience across emerging technologies, international markets, and consumer brands, helping organizations navigate complex policy and business challenges from strategy to execution. Before joining Breakwater, Patrick completed internships with non-profits working in anti-corruption and conflict prevention, and worked on democracy and governance organization IRI’s Southern Africa team. In the latter role, he attended and helped organize political party trainings ahead of Angola’s 2022 General Elections and a regional party summit in Johannesburg. Patrick was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin and graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in Political Science and African Diaspora studies. He spent four months studying in Accra, Ghana and travelled to Togo, Kenya and Tanzania after finishing his semester. He enjoys following Wisconsin sports teams, professional tennis and Brighton & Hove Albion.

  Associate
  Director

  patrick@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Patrick is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy, where he works with clients on stakeholder engagement, organizational strategy and reputation management. He brings experience across emerging technologies, international markets, and consumer brands, helping organizations navigate complex policy and business challenges from strategy to execution.

  Before joining Breakwater, Patrick completed internships with non-profits working in anti-corruption and conflict prevention, and worked on democracy and governance organization IRI’s Southern Africa team. In the latter role, he attended and helped organize political party trainings ahead of Angola’s 2022 General Elections and a regional party summit in Johannesburg.

  Patrick was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin and graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in Political Science and African Diaspora studies. He spent four months studying in Accra, Ghana and travelled to Togo, Kenya and Tanzania after finishing his semester. He enjoys following Wisconsin sports teams, professional tennis and Brighton & Hove Albion.

• 

  Austin Cook

  Austin Cook is a Director at Breakwater Strategy, where he draws on a decade of experience in public affairs, crisis communications, and media strategy. He has led high-stakes communications efforts for political campaigns, elected officials, and businesses, helping clients navigate complex reputational challenges in fast-moving environments.  Before joining Breakwater, Austin served as Communications Director for Elissa Slotkin’s successful 2024 U.S. Senate campaign, where he oversaw all media engagement, rapid response, and messaging strategy in one of the most competitive elections in the country. He previously served as Slotkin’s Communications Director in the U.S. House of Representatives, managing press strategy on national security, emerging technology, and defense policy. He also helped Slotkin prepare for her response to President Donald Trump’s 2025 Joint Address to Congress. Earlier in his career, Austin was Communications Director for the North Carolina Democratic Party during the 2020 election cycle and held key communications roles on Senator Amy Klobuchar’s presidential campaign. He also has agency-side experience advising Fortune 500 companies and advocacy groups on strategic messaging and reputation management.  Austin holds a bachelor’s degree in politics and international Affairs from Wake Forest University, where he served as editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, and a master’s degree in national security policy from Duke University. He lives in Brooklyn with his girlfriend and their dog.

  Director
  

  austin@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Austin Cook is a Director at Breakwater Strategy, where he draws on a decade of experience in public affairs, crisis communications, and media strategy. He has led high-stakes communications efforts for political campaigns, elected officials, and businesses, helping clients navigate complex reputational challenges in fast-moving environments. 

  Before joining Breakwater, Austin served as Communications Director for Elissa Slotkin’s successful 2024 U.S. Senate campaign, where he oversaw all media engagement, rapid response, and messaging strategy in one of the most competitive elections in the country. He previously served as Slotkin’s Communications Director in the U.S. House of Representatives, managing press strategy on national security, emerging technology, and defense policy. He also helped Slotkin prepare for her response to President Donald Trump’s 2025 Joint Address to Congress.

  Earlier in his career, Austin was Communications Director for the North Carolina Democratic Party during the 2020 election cycle and held key communications roles on Senator Amy Klobuchar’s presidential campaign. He also has agency-side experience advising Fortune 500 companies and advocacy groups on strategic messaging and reputation management. 

  Austin holds a bachelor’s degree in politics and international Affairs from Wake Forest University, where he served as editor-in-chief of the student newspaper, and a master’s degree in national security policy from Duke University. He lives in Brooklyn with his girlfriend and their dog.

• 

  Maggie Fern

  As a Director at Breakwater Strategy, Maggie brings with her a passion for emerging technologies across industries and navigating complex regulatory environments. Maggie is an MBA candidate at Georgetown University with a concentration in non-market strategy. She is honored as a Social Business Fellow and Impact Investing Fellow where she has performed research ranging from altruistic investment in disaster zones to the economics of agricultural supply chains in the Upper Midwest. Most recently, Maggie worked as a consultant with the Department of Energy (DOE) managing the Technology Commercialization Fund (TCF) which aims to accelerate the commercialization of innovative energy technologies. Previously, Maggie served as the Technical Lead to the CEO of Nanoracks where she provided thought leadership for program development and market expansion, led the externally hosted payloads program for the International Space Station (ISS), and ran SBIRs under the Advanced Concepts program for a novel cislunar, autonomous data relay platform. Lastly, Maggie worked as an Embedded Systems Engineer at Boeing to develop command and data handling systems for the ISS and test flight computers for the Space Launch System (SLS) at Marshall Space Flight Center. Maggie spent her early career working as a NASA intern developing real-time control systems for rocket engine test stands at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Maggie graduated Magna Cum Laude from Loyola University in New Orleans and received a double major Finance and Computer Science with a concentration in Computational Science. Based in Washington, DC with her husband and puppy, Maggie spends her time enjoying all things jazz, oysters, and DIY home improvements.

  Director
  

  maggie@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As a Director at Breakwater Strategy, Maggie brings with her a passion for emerging technologies across industries and navigating complex regulatory environments.

  Maggie is an MBA candidate at Georgetown University with a concentration in non-market strategy. She is honored as a Social Business Fellow and Impact Investing Fellow where she has performed research ranging from altruistic investment in disaster zones to the economics of agricultural supply chains in the Upper Midwest.

  Most recently, Maggie worked as a consultant with the Department of Energy (DOE) managing the Technology Commercialization Fund (TCF) which aims to accelerate the commercialization of innovative energy technologies. Previously, Maggie served as the Technical Lead to the CEO of Nanoracks where she provided thought leadership for program development and market expansion, led the externally hosted payloads program for the International Space Station (ISS), and ran SBIRs under the Advanced Concepts program for a novel cislunar, autonomous data relay platform.

  Lastly, Maggie worked as an Embedded Systems Engineer at Boeing to develop command and data handling systems for the ISS and test flight computers for the Space Launch System (SLS) at Marshall Space Flight Center. Maggie spent her early career working as a NASA intern developing real-time control systems for rocket engine test stands at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Maggie graduated Magna Cum Laude from Loyola University in New Orleans and received a double major Finance and Computer Science with a concentration in Computational Science.

  Based in Washington, DC with her husband and puppy, Maggie spends her time enjoying all things jazz, oysters, and DIY home improvements.

• 

  Sam Fossum

  Sam is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy. As a former journalist, Sam works with clients to help them build insightful communications strategies and manage reputational risks. Sam has a deep interest and understanding of the media landscape and is passionate about helping prepare clients for high-stakes appearances. He is particularly focused on the intersection of financial services, emerging technologies and policymaking.    Prior to Breakwater, Sam was an Emmy-award-winning producer/reporter who covered the White House and Capitol Hill for CNN. He regularly filed stories for digital and worked with the network’s top correspondents and anchors. His stories spanned the intersection of politics and public policy, from debt ceiling negotiations and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s ouster to the 2024 presidential campaign.   After being born in Anchorage, Alaska, Sam spent his childhood in Russia before later moving to the UK. He then returned to the U.S. for university, graduating from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore with a bachelor’s degree in History and Writing Seminars. He first got involved in communications and journalism while writing for the undergraduate newspaper.   When not in the office, you can often find Sam tinkering with his sourdough starter, exploring a new museum or finding a quiet place to enjoy a good book.  

  Associate
  Director

  sam@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Sam is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy. As a former journalist, Sam works with clients to help them build insightful communications strategies and manage reputational risks. Sam has a deep interest and understanding of the media landscape and is passionate about helping prepare clients for high-stakes appearances. He is particularly focused on the intersection of financial services, emerging technologies and policymaking.   

  Prior to Breakwater, Sam was an Emmy-award-winning producer/reporter who covered the White House and Capitol Hill for CNN. He regularly filed stories for digital and worked with the network’s top correspondents and anchors. His stories spanned the intersection of politics and public policy, from debt ceiling negotiations and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s ouster to the 2024 presidential campaign.  

  After being born in Anchorage, Alaska, Sam spent his childhood in Russia before later moving to the UK. He then returned to the U.S. for university, graduating from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore with a bachelor’s degree in History and Writing Seminars. He first got involved in communications and journalism while writing for the undergraduate newspaper.  

  When not in the office, you can often find Sam tinkering with his sourdough starter, exploring a new museum or finding a quiet place to enjoy a good book.  

• 

  Emi Groth

  Emi Groth is a Senior Associate at Breakwater Strategy. Based in San Francisco, she collaborates with colleagues across the BWS firm to support clients on announcement planning, research asks, media relations, and communications strategy. Prior to Breakwater, Emi worked at a boutique PR agency focused on early-stage tech companies and startups. While there, she developed strategic communications plans, managed media outreach campaigns, drafted messaging materials, and helped emerging companies shape their narratives.Emi graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a minor in Art History. While attending undergrad, she played on UCSB’s collegiate D1 women’s soccer team for three years. Later, she studied abroad in Florence, Italy, interning as an art gallery assistant. As a California native, you'll find Emi outside hiking coastal trails or local parks, though she's just as content at home trying out new recipes or getting hooked on the latest TV show or movie.

  Senior
  Associate

  emi@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Emi Groth is a Senior Associate at Breakwater Strategy. Based in San Francisco, she collaborates with colleagues across the BWS firm to support clients on announcement planning, research asks, media relations, and communications strategy.

  Prior to Breakwater, Emi worked at a boutique PR agency focused on early-stage tech companies and startups. While there, she developed strategic communications plans, managed media outreach campaigns, drafted messaging materials, and helped emerging companies shape their narratives.Emi graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a minor in Art History. While attending undergrad, she played on UCSB’s collegiate D1 women’s soccer team for three years. Later, she studied abroad in Florence, Italy, interning as an art gallery assistant.

  As a California native, you’ll find Emi outside hiking coastal trails or local parks, though she’s just as content at home trying out new recipes or getting hooked on the latest TV show or movie.

• 

  Maureen Hansen

  With an extensive background in market research, strategy, and communications, Maureen is focused on designing and delivering innovative solutions for our clients. Maureen joined Breakwater with experience working for leading global corporations across Marketing, Strategy, and Business Intelligence. Over the course of her career, Maureen has been responsible for large scale, in-depth, global research projects, competitive intelligence, marketing and go-to-market strategies, and thought leadership execution. Through each of these focus areas, she has shaped both internal and external strategies, honing her ability to balance strategic development with operational execution. Maureen’s experience managing change and building strategies through mergers and acquisitions gives her a well-rounded perspective when analyzing issues, making recommendations, and developing solutions for clients. Maureen holds a B.S.B.A. in Finance from The Catholic University of America, as well as an M.B.A. in International Business and an M.S. in Accountancy from Saint Peter’s University. She sits on the board of a small, non-profit dog rescue and was selected to be on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange the day her previous company went public. Outside of work Maureen is an avid reader, puzzler, and traveler, spending as much time with her family and friends as possible. Expertise: Market Research & Competitive Intelligence Business Strategy Marketing Strategy and Communications Product Marketing and Development

  Vice
  President, Capital Markets

  maureen@breakwaterstrategy.com

  With an extensive background in market research, strategy, and communications, Maureen is focused on designing and delivering innovative solutions for our clients.

  Maureen joined Breakwater with experience working for leading global corporations across Marketing, Strategy, and Business Intelligence. Over the course of her career, Maureen has been responsible for large scale, in-depth, global research projects, competitive intelligence, marketing and go-to-market strategies, and thought leadership execution. Through each of these focus areas, she has shaped both internal and external strategies, honing her ability to balance strategic development with operational execution. Maureen’s experience managing change and building strategies through mergers and acquisitions gives her a well-rounded perspective when analyzing issues, making recommendations, and developing solutions for clients.

  Maureen holds a B.S.B.A. in Finance from The Catholic University of America, as well as an M.B.A. in International Business and an M.S. in Accountancy from Saint Peter’s University. She sits on the board of a small, non-profit dog rescue and was selected to be on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange the day her previous company went public. Outside of work Maureen is an avid reader, puzzler, and traveler, spending as much time with her family and friends as possible.

  Expertise:

  • Market Research & Competitive Intelligence
  • Business Strategy
  • Marketing Strategy and Communications
  • Product Marketing and Development

• 

  Mark Hayes

  Mark is the Founding Partner of Breakwater Capital Markets, the capital markets advisory arm of Breakwater Strategy, where he advises boards and executive leadership teams on how valuation is formed and how it can be elevated across global capital markets. He works with venture capital-backed, pre-IPO, public companies, private equity sponsors, investment partnerships, and family offices to align capital markets, business, and investor communication strategies to drive long-term value.  Mark developed the Valuation Operating System™, a proprietary enterprise framework that integrates business strategy, operations, investor intelligence, and capital markets engagement into a disciplined approach to value creation. The Valuation Operating System provides leadership teams and boards with a practical structure for understanding how valuation is built and defended across the global investor ecosystem and how to influence it deliberately through periods of growth, transformation, transaction, or market volatility.  He is widely regarded as an international authority on valuation formation and investor behavior, with published and presented perspectives across major global financial centers in Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and North America. His work helps boards, management teams, and investors interpret global market dynamics and make informed decisions at moments of strategic inflection.  Mark’s expertise spans capital markets and investor relations; investor intelligence and perception analysis; valuation strategy and architecture; strategic, transactional, and financial investor communications; investor relations strategy and execution; investor days and non-deal roadshows; capital structure optimization, including private credit; and advisory support for special situations such as activist and short-seller defense, hostile and complementary transactions, management transitions, and crisis environments. He works across sell-side, global buy-side, and retail investor audiences, serving organizations of all sizes across sectors and geographies.  Before founding Breakwater Capital Markets, Mark was Executive Vice President and Chief Client Officer of a globally oriented investor relations firm, where he was instrumental in scaling a nascent business into a globally recognized investor relations firm, shaping its strategy, client model, and market positioning through a period of accelerated growth. Earlier in his career, he held senior executive leadership roles across strategy, finance, operations, technology, marketing, communications, sales, product development, and organizational design, delivering sustained improvements in operating performance and P&L results through high levels of employee engagement and innovation, most recently within a Fortune 15 company.  Mark has been active in the nonprofit community for more than three decades. He served on the Board of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, including as a member of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Governance Committee, and past Chair of the Finance and Development Committees. He is also a former Executive Board Member of the World Affairs Council of Connecticut and Juvenile Diabetes of Greater Hartford and has served as Campaign Chair for the oldest continuously operating food bank in the United States and for a best-in-class annual giving campaign for a Fortune 50 company. Expertise:  Capital Markets and Investor Relations  Investor Intelligence (Perception), Strategic, Transaction & Financial Investor Communications, Strategy & Reputation, Special Situations and Crisis Management,   Valuation Strategist & Architect  Investor Relations Strategy & Process Development and Execution  Sell-Side/Global Buy-Side/Retail Investors  Investor Days and Non-Deal Roadshows  Board, CEO & Management Team Advisory (Business Strategy & Operations)  Transformational Business Strategy & Breakthrough Innovation  Global Dynamics  All Sectors and Market Capitalizations 

  Partner,
  Head of Breakwater Capital Markets

  mark@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Mark is the Founding Partner of Breakwater Capital Markets, the capital markets advisory arm of Breakwater Strategy, where he advises boards and executive leadership teams on how valuation is formed and how it can be elevated across global capital markets. He works with venture capital-backed, pre-IPO, public companies, private equity sponsors, investment partnerships, and family offices to align capital markets, business, and investor communication strategies to drive long-term value. 

  Mark developed the Valuation Operating System™, a proprietary enterprise framework that integrates business strategy, operations, investor intelligence, and capital markets engagement into a disciplined approach to value creation. The Valuation Operating System provides leadership teams and boards with a practical structure for understanding how valuation is built and defended across the global investor ecosystem and how to influence it deliberately through periods of growth, transformation, transaction, or market volatility. 

  He is widely regarded as an international authority on valuation formation and investor behavior, with published and presented perspectives across major global financial centers in Japan, Hong Kong, the Middle East, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and North America. His work helps boards, management teams, and investors interpret global market dynamics and make informed decisions at moments of strategic inflection. 

  Mark’s expertise spans capital markets and investor relations; investor intelligence and perception analysis; valuation strategy and architecture; strategic, transactional, and financial investor communications; investor relations strategy and execution; investor days and non-deal roadshows; capital structure optimization, including private credit; and advisory support for special situations such as activist and short-seller defense, hostile and complementary transactions, management transitions, and crisis environments. He works across sell-side, global buy-side, and retail investor audiences, serving organizations of all sizes across sectors and geographies. 

  Before founding Breakwater Capital Markets, Mark was Executive Vice President and Chief Client Officer of a globally oriented investor relations firm, where he was instrumental in scaling a nascent business into a globally recognized investor relations firm, shaping its strategy, client model, and market positioning through a period of accelerated growth. Earlier in his career, he held senior executive leadership roles across strategy, finance, operations, technology, marketing, communications, sales, product development, and organizational design, delivering sustained improvements in operating performance and P&L results through high levels of employee engagement and innovation, most recently within a Fortune 15 company. 

  Mark has been active in the nonprofit community for more than three decades. He served on the Board of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, including as a member of the Executive Committee, Chair of the Governance Committee, and past Chair of the Finance and Development Committees. He is also a former Executive Board Member of the World Affairs Council of Connecticut and Juvenile Diabetes of Greater Hartford and has served as Campaign Chair for the oldest continuously operating food bank in the United States and for a best-in-class annual giving campaign for a Fortune 50 company.

  Expertise: 

  • Capital Markets and Investor Relations 
  • Investor Intelligence (Perception), Strategic, Transaction & Financial Investor Communications, Strategy & Reputation, Special Situations and Crisis Management,  
  • Valuation Strategist & Architect 
  • Investor Relations Strategy & Process Development and Execution 
  • Sell-Side/Global Buy-Side/Retail Investors 
  • Investor Days and Non-Deal Roadshows 
  • Board, CEO & Management Team Advisory (Business Strategy & Operations) 
  • Transformational Business Strategy & Breakthrough Innovation 
  • Global Dynamics 
  • All Sectors and Market Capitalizations 

• 

  Elayna Herrera

  Elayna Herrera is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy based in Washington D.C. Elayna utilizes her experience in corporate communications, research, and writing to support her teams and aid clients in achieving their goals. As an associate, her day-to-day includes media monitoring, research, administrative work, and crafting communication deliverables. Elayna graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism and political science. During her time in college, Elayna was a campus tour guide where she leveraged her storytelling ability to attract prospective students from all over the country to come to Carolina. It served as a rewarding role that polished her communication skills and allowed her to build special connections with the individuals on her tours. If she wasn’t giving tours, Elayna was helping craft new packages for her school’s student-run broadcast, Carolina Week, while also contributing to her sorority's judicial and DEI committee. Before joining Breakwater in October 2025, Elayna held a variety of internship roles working across different industries, including energy and renewables, philanthropy, biotech, and higher education. As a corporate communications intern at Duke Energy, Elayna published two stories on Duke Energy’s Illumination site highlighting the company’s philanthropic contributions to the environment. She also worked as a consumer troubleshooter intern at ABC11, a newsroom in Raleigh, North Carolina, as well as a public affairs intern at SKDK, a public affairs and political consulting firm. Outside of work, Elayna enjoys running, trying new food, reading, and travelling. Her favorite international destination is Granada, Spain, a small town in the southern region of the country that offers delicious tapas and scenic architecture.

  Associate
  

  elayna@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Elayna Herrera is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy based in Washington D.C. Elayna utilizes her experience in corporate communications, research, and writing to support her teams and aid clients in achieving their goals. As an associate, her day-to-day includes media monitoring, research, administrative work, and crafting communication deliverables.

  Elayna graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism and political science. During her time in college, Elayna was a campus tour guide where she leveraged her storytelling ability to attract prospective students from all over the country to come to Carolina. It served as a rewarding role that polished her communication skills and allowed her to build special connections with the individuals on her tours. If she wasn’t giving tours, Elayna was helping craft new packages for her school’s student-run broadcast, Carolina Week, while also contributing to her sorority’s judicial and DEI committee.

  Before joining Breakwater in October 2025, Elayna held a variety of internship roles working across different industries, including energy and renewables, philanthropy, biotech, and higher education. As a corporate communications intern at Duke Energy, Elayna published two stories on Duke Energy’s Illumination site highlighting the company’s philanthropic contributions to the environment. She also worked as a consumer troubleshooter intern at ABC11, a newsroom in Raleigh, North Carolina, as well as a public affairs intern at SKDK, a public affairs and political consulting firm.

  Outside of work, Elayna enjoys running, trying new food, reading, and travelling. Her favorite international destination is Granada, Spain, a small town in the southern region of the country that offers delicious tapas and scenic architecture.

• 

  Simone Jackenthal

  Simone Jackenthal is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. She brings a passion for strategic communications, crisis support, and reputation management. Simone has substantial experience leading and executing public relations, public affairs, and other strategic communications campaigns for high-profile clients in highly regulated sectors. Her work includes media relations, thought leadership, crisis management, internal and external communications strategies. Simone’s experience spans several industries including political advocacy, technology, consumer products, health, nutrition, fintech, fashion, entertainment, and crypto, among others. Most recently, Simone was a Director at Trident DMG where she largely advised clients on crisis communications and reputation management. She organized strategic communications campaigns for clients across various sectors, advised Fortune 500 companies on media trainings, and recommended approaches to C-suite executives for crisis mitigation. Simone led various funding announcements for technology startups, securing media coverage in top-tier national outlets, local media, and trades. She also coordinated with legal teams when necessary to create cohesive media strategies for clients engaged in litigation. Previously, Simone served as an Associate at Weber Shandwick where she supported the Public Affairs team with government relations, marketing, internal communications, media relations, and social media. In this role, Simone organized events on the Hill to engage various clients with Members of Congress, drafted press releases for distribution, and secured media coverage with reporters. She also assisted with health and nutrition clients and supported the paid media and digital advertising team. Simone earned a Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communications and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Communications from The George Washington University. Her published thesis focuses on media framing effects of the Black Lives Matter movement, and she currently lives in Potomac, Maryland with her wife and two dogs.

  Director
  

  simone@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Simone Jackenthal is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. She brings a passion for strategic communications, crisis support, and reputation management. Simone has substantial experience leading and executing public relations, public affairs, and other strategic communications campaigns for high–profile clients in highly regulated sectors. Her work includes media relations, thought leadership, crisis management, internal and external communications strategies. Simone’s experience spans several industries including political advocacy, technology, consumer products, health, nutrition, fintech, fashion, entertainment, and crypto, among others.

  Most recently, Simone was a Director at Trident DMG where she largely advised clients on crisis communications and reputation management. She organized strategic communications campaigns for clients across various sectors, advised Fortune 500 companies on media trainings, and recommended approaches to C–suite executives for crisis mitigation. Simone led various funding announcements for technology startups, securing media coverage in top–tier national outlets, local media, and trades. She also coordinated with legal teams when necessary to create cohesive media strategies for clients engaged in litigation.

  Previously, Simone served as an Associate at Weber Shandwick where she supported the Public Affairs team with government relations, marketing, internal communications, media relations, and social media. In this role, Simone organized events on the Hill to engage various clients with Members of Congress, drafted press releases for distribution, and secured media coverage with reporters. She also assisted with health and nutrition clients and supported the paid media and digital advertising team.
  

  Simone earned a Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communications and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Communications from The George Washington University. Her published thesis focuses on media framing effects of the Black Lives Matter movement, and she currently lives in Potomac, Maryland with her wife and two dogs.

• 

  Jin Kang

  As an Associate Director on the Research and Insights team, Jin works on all things research, from custom quantitative survey development to qualitative focus group execution and beyond. He is particularly passionate about public opinion research and considering viewpoints that challenge his own opinions.    Before joining the Breakwater team, Jin was a Director at Accelerant Research, where he led the quantitative research function and designed custom market research surveys for clients to help them better understand their brand perceptions. Prior to that, Jin worked with fellow Breakwater team member Ben Williams at High Lantern Group, where he gained an appreciation for strategic communications and the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Asheville, NC office.   Jin is a graduate of the UNC Chapel Hill, where he majored in Economics and Psychology and minored in Business Administration. As a Chapel Hill native and UNC-alum, Jin remains a die-hard Tar Heel fan, and is known for annoying his co-workers with his hot takes and bold claims about all things Carolina sports.

  Associate
  Director

  jin@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As an Associate Director on the Research and Insights team, Jin works on all things research, from custom quantitative survey development to qualitative focus group execution and beyond. He is particularly passionate about public opinion research and considering viewpoints that challenge his own opinions.   

  Before joining the Breakwater team, Jin was a Director at Accelerant Research, where he led the quantitative research function and designed custom market research surveys for clients to help them better understand their brand perceptions. Prior to that, Jin worked with fellow Breakwater team member Ben Williams at High Lantern Group, where he gained an appreciation for strategic communications and the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Asheville, NC office.  

  Jin is a graduate of the UNC Chapel Hill, where he majored in Economics and Psychology and minored in Business Administration. As a Chapel Hill native and UNC-alum, Jin remains a die-hard Tar Heel fan, and is known for annoying his co-workers with his hot takes and bold claims about all things Carolina sports.

• 

  Meredith Karbowsky

  Meredith currently serves as an Associate Director within the Breakwater Strategies Capital Markets practice. Prior to joining Breakwater, she worked at Capstone LLC for almost three years, working as an associate and then senior analyst on the private market teams. She was a generalist, assisting all of Capstone’s policy vertical teams on over 30 due diligence and consulting projects for private equity and corporate clients. On the projects she has worked on, Meredith has covered a wide variety of topics such as organic waste policy, satellite-based emissions monitoring, and international debt collection laws. Before joining Capstone, she attended Indiana University, Bloomington and received a degree in Finance and Public Policy Analysis from the Kelley School of Business. She currently serves on the Board of the Envision Capital Management, a student organization and 501c3 non-profit student investment fund she helped create while at Indiana University. Expertise: Private Equity Market Research Public Policy Strategic Marketing

  Associate
  Director, Capital Markets

  Meredith@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Meredith currently serves as an Associate Director within the Breakwater Strategies Capital Markets practice.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, she worked at Capstone LLC for almost three years, working as an associate and then senior analyst on the private market teams. She was a generalist, assisting all of Capstone’s policy vertical teams on over 30 due diligence and consulting projects for private equity and corporate clients. On the projects she has worked on, Meredith has covered a wide variety of topics such as organic waste policy, satellite-based emissions monitoring, and international debt collection laws.

  Before joining Capstone, she attended Indiana University, Bloomington and received a degree in Finance and Public Policy Analysis from the Kelley School of Business. She currently serves on the Board of the Envision Capital Management, a student organization and 501c3 non-profit student investment fund she helped create while at Indiana University.

  Expertise:

  • Private Equity
  • Market Research
  • Public Policy
  • Strategic Marketing

• 

  Caryn Leahy

  Caryn Leahy is a Managing Director at Breakwater Strategy. A passionate, trusted client leader, Caryn is in a state of flow when helping clients creatively solve problems and navigate complex, challenging, and rapidly evolving situations. At Breakwater, she leads results-driven corporate reputation, public affairs, and issues campaigns for Fortune 500 companies and cutting-edge leaders in tech, food, healthcare and more. She leverages her background in broadcast journalism to help clients develop, sharpen, and amplify their voices with the power of earned media.  Most recently, Caryn was a Vice President at Ketchum where she oversaw comprehensive communications programs, including strategic planning, earned media, digital and third-party partnership strategies to move key stakeholders and the general public. In this role, she managed multimillion-dollar budgets and acted as a rapid-response public affairs, issues and crisis counselor for clients across all 14 Ketchum sectors in the agency’s global network.  Previously, Caryn served as Senior Director at Rational 360, a full-service public affairs firm, and was an associate producer for Middle East Broadcasting Networks. Caryn received her Master of International Affairs from Columbia University and her Bachelor of Arts in political science from Bates College.  When Caryn isn’t supporting her clients through a crisis or challenge, she’s probably spending time with friends and family or running on one of the DMV’s finest trails. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband Kevin and son Julian. 

  Managing
  Director

  caryn@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Caryn Leahy is a Managing Director at Breakwater Strategy. A passionate, trusted client leader, Caryn is in a state of flow when helping clients creatively solve problems and navigate complex, challenging, and rapidly evolving situations. At Breakwater, she leads results-driven corporate reputation, public affairs, and issues campaigns for Fortune 500 companies and cutting-edge leaders in tech, food, healthcare and more. She leverages her background in broadcast journalism to help clients develop, sharpen, and amplify their voices with the power of earned media. 

  Most recently, Caryn was a Vice President at Ketchum where she oversaw comprehensive communications programs, including strategic planning, earned media, digital and third-party partnership strategies to move key stakeholders and the general public. In this role, she managed multimillion-dollar budgets and acted as a rapid-response public affairs, issues and crisis counselor for clients across all 14 Ketchum sectors in the agency’s global network. 

  Previously, Caryn served as Senior Director at Rational 360, a full-service public affairs firm, and was an associate producer for Middle East Broadcasting Networks. Caryn received her Master of International Affairs from Columbia University and her Bachelor of Arts in political science from Bates College. 

  When Caryn isn’t supporting her clients through a crisis or challenge, she’s probably spending time with friends and family or running on one of the DMV’s finest trails. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband Kevin and son Julian. 

• 

  Ben Levine

  Ben is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where he supports client teams in developing strategic communications and media recommendations. Based out of Washington D.C., he is a strategic communications professional with strong experience in research, writing, and media outreach. Prior to joining Breakwater, Ben worked as an Associate The Fratelli Group, where he helped to develop and implement communications strategies for a variety of clients, including prominent business coalitions, trade groups, and a climate finance nonprofit. He conducted in-depth policy and sector research, coordinated press outreach and interview opportunities, and assisted with social media strategy, monitoring, and content creation. Ben graduated from Carleton College, where he majored in political science and international relations with a focus in leadership, peace, and security. During his time at Carleton, he was a member of the varsity football team, served as the editor of a satire publication, and studied abroad at the London School of Economics and Sevilla, Spain. His undergraduate thesis was an analysis of the intersection of sport, nationalism, and racism in Europe through a qualitative study about racism and foreign-born players in the English Premier League. Hailing from Portland, Maine, Ben can be found loudly cheering for the Patriots and other New England sports teams, reviewing movies on Letterboxd, and cooking in his free time.

  Associate
  

  Ben@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Ben is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where he supports client teams in developing strategic communications and media recommendations. Based out of Washington D.C., he is a strategic communications professional with strong experience in research, writing, and media outreach.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Ben worked as an Associate The Fratelli Group, where he helped to develop and implement communications strategies for a variety of clients, including prominent business coalitions, trade groups, and a climate finance nonprofit. He conducted in-depth policy and sector research, coordinated press outreach and interview opportunities, and assisted with social media strategy, monitoring, and content creation.

  Ben graduated from Carleton College, where he majored in political science and international relations with a focus in leadership, peace, and security. During his time at Carleton, he was a member of the varsity football team, served as the editor of a satire publication, and studied abroad at the London School of Economics and Sevilla, Spain. His undergraduate thesis was an analysis of the intersection of sport, nationalism, and racism in Europe through a qualitative study about racism and foreign-born players in the English Premier League.

  Hailing from Portland, Maine, Ben can be found loudly cheering for the Patriots and other New England sports teams, reviewing movies on Letterboxd, and cooking in his free time.

• 

  Kate Lochner

  Kate is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy based in Washington, D.C. She works closely with the team to assist in all client needs, including drafting messaging, coordinating communications campaigns, researching client-specific policy and media opportunities, and providing additional support as needed. Prior to Breakwater, Kate worked at Allison+Partners on the Global Reputation Risk + Public Affairs team. In this role she specialized in supporting clients through proactive and reactive crisis and reputation management, in addition to designing and executing national, state, and local level public affairs campaigns. Her work included conducting media landscape monitoring and analysis, background research, message development, and proactive and reactive media outreach. She brings a breadth of experience working for some of the biggest brands across various industries, including consumer tech, commercial real estate, health and health tech, nonprofit and government agencies, defense, aerospace and more. Kate graduated with honors from East Carolina University with Bachelor of Science in Communication, concentrating in public relations and media studies. She is currently working towards a Master of Science in Strategic Communication from Columbia University. In her free time, she can typically be found exploring new restaurants in DC, cheering on the Capitals, or visiting parks around the DMV with her dog Nox.

  Associate
  Director

  Kate@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Kate is an Associate Director at Breakwater Strategy based in Washington, D.C. She works closely with the team to assist in all client needs, including drafting messaging, coordinating communications campaigns, researching client-specific policy and media opportunities, and providing additional support as needed.

  Prior to Breakwater, Kate worked at Allison+Partners on the Global Reputation Risk + Public Affairs team. In this role she specialized in supporting clients through proactive and reactive crisis and reputation management, in addition to designing and executing national, state, and local level public affairs campaigns. Her work included conducting media landscape monitoring and analysis, background research, message development, and proactive and reactive media outreach. She brings a breadth of experience working for some of the biggest brands across various industries, including consumer tech, commercial real estate, health and health tech, nonprofit and government agencies, defense, aerospace and more.

  Kate graduated with honors from East Carolina University with Bachelor of Science in Communication, concentrating in public relations and media studies. She is currently working towards a Master of Science in Strategic Communication from Columbia University. In her free time, she can typically be found exploring new restaurants in DC, cheering on the Capitals, or visiting parks around the DMV with her dog Nox.

• 

  Bryn Luedde

  Bryn is an Associate on the Research and Insights team, where she supports quantitative and qualitative research and analysis that powers client solutions. Prior to joining Breakwater, Bryn served as a Research Associate in the Executive Office of the President, where she vetted individuals and organizations seeking presidential engagement, tracked global media trends, and fact-checked high-level communications materials. Working alongside policy, national security, and communications professionals, she developed expertise in delivering precise messaging and identifying strategic opportunities on complex policy matters. Bryn graduated summa cum laude from Colgate University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She was awarded a competitive research fellowship from the Lampert Institute for Civic and Global Affairs and spent time as a visiting student in the Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge. Her senior thesis examined the role of mediator states like the US in peace settlements in Sudan and South Sudan. Research is at the heart of Bryn's work. She has a passion for uncovering insights that drive informed decision-making and crafting compelling narratives based on rigorous analysis. A Pittsburgh native and long-suffering Pirates fan now based in D.C., Bryn enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring local flea markets and vintage shops in her free time.

  Associate
  

  bryn@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Bryn is an Associate on the Research and Insights team, where she supports quantitative and qualitative research and analysis that powers client solutions.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Bryn served as a Research Associate in the Executive Office of the President, where she vetted individuals and organizations seeking presidential engagement, tracked global media trends, and fact-checked high-level communications materials. Working alongside policy, national security, and communications professionals, she developed expertise in delivering precise messaging and identifying strategic opportunities on complex policy matters.

  Bryn graduated summa cum laude from Colgate University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She was awarded a competitive research fellowship from the Lampert Institute for Civic and Global Affairs and spent time as a visiting student in the Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge. Her senior thesis examined the role of mediator states like the US in peace settlements in Sudan and South Sudan.

  Research is at the heart of Bryn’s work. She has a passion for uncovering insights that drive informed decision-making and crafting compelling narratives based on rigorous analysis.

  A Pittsburgh native and long-suffering Pirates fan now based in D.C., Bryn enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring local flea markets and vintage shops in her free time.

• 

  Lydie Neill

  As a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy, Lydie works with a range of clients across industries including tech, financial services, education, media and entertainment on strategic communications challenges and initiatives.  Since 2019, Lydie has worked on Breakwater Strategy’s strategic communications accounts, supporting clients in crisis and reputation management, corporate and executive communications, and media campaigns. Her work includes conducting media landscape analysis, background research, content analysis, message development and proactive media outreach. As just the second employee at Breakwater, she plays a central role both in overseeing the firm's day-to-day operations and in safeguarding its culture.  Prior to Breakwater, Lydie worked as a Strategic Communications Associate at FGS Global (legacy Glover Park Group) where she supported client teams with background research, media monitoring and client deliverables.  Originally from North Carolina and currently based out of Raleigh, Lydie is a graduate from UNC Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s degree in Media and Journalism and a minor in Hispanic Studies. She can typically be found reading the latest book between commercial breaks of UNC Basketball games or walking around the triangle with her dog Mack. 

  Vice
  President

  lydie@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy, Lydie works with a range of clients across industries including tech, financial services, education, media and entertainment on strategic communications challenges and initiatives. 

  Since 2019, Lydie has worked on Breakwater Strategy’s strategic communications accounts, supporting clients in crisis and reputation management, corporate and executive communications, and media campaigns. Her work includes conducting media landscape analysis, background research, content analysis, message development and proactive media outreach. As just the second employee at Breakwater, she plays a central role both in overseeing the firm’s day-to-day operations and in safeguarding its culture. 

  Prior to Breakwater, Lydie worked as a Strategic Communications Associate at FGS Global (legacy Glover Park Group) where she supported client teams with background research, media monitoring and client deliverables. 

  Originally from North Carolina and currently based out of Raleigh, Lydie is a graduate from UNC Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s degree in Media and Journalism and a minor in Hispanic Studies. She can typically be found reading the latest book between commercial breaks of UNC Basketball games or walking around the triangle with her dog Mack. 

• 

  Lauren Nixon

  Lauren Nixon is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where she combines her expertise in journalistic writing and strategic communication to support clients through media analysis and research. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she grew up, Lauren is passionate about exploring the intersection of advocacy and communication across various industries and mediums. Prior to her return to California in June 2025, Lauren earned both her BA and MA degrees from George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs in Washington, DC. During her studies, she held multiple policy and communications-focused roles at organizations including the Smithsonian Institution and an affordable housing trade association, as well as at several PR agencies. Most recently, she served as a communications fellow at Scott Circle Communications, a boutique PR agency serving nonprofit and mission-driven clients. In her free time, Lauren can be found playing with her two dogs, enjoying good food with her best friends, attending pilates classes, reading historical fiction novels, and dancing to her favorite music.

  Associate
  

  lauren@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Lauren Nixon is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where she combines her expertise in journalistic writing and strategic communication to support clients through media analysis and research. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she grew up, Lauren is passionate about exploring the intersection of advocacy and communication across various industries and mediums.

  Prior to her return to California in June 2025, Lauren earned both her BA and MA degrees from George Washington University’s School of Media and Public Affairs in Washington, DC. During her studies, she held multiple policy and communications-focused roles at organizations including the Smithsonian Institution and an affordable housing trade association, as well as at several PR agencies. Most recently, she served as a communications fellow at Scott Circle Communications, a boutique PR agency serving nonprofit and mission-driven clients.

  In her free time, Lauren can be found playing with her two dogs, enjoying good food with her best friends, attending pilates classes, reading historical fiction novels, and dancing to her favorite music.

• 

  Jennifer Parmelee Witt

  With a broad functional and business background in strategy development, go-to-market positioning, and driving execution, Jennifer is focused on supporting and elevating Breakwater’s capital markets strategy. Prior to joining Breakwater, Jennifer worked for Fortune 100 companies in both healthcare and financial services across strategy, operations, product, marketing, research, and communications. Jennifer has experience leading through turnarounds, accelerating business transformation, entering new markets, and pivoting strategy to drive growth in existing markets. Additionally, Jennifer has experience standing up new strategic partnerships and supporting the integration of acquisitions. Jennifer graduated from Wellesley College, with a B.A. in Political Science, and is active in the Hartford Wellesley Club. She is also the Chair of the FCC Simsbury Stewardship Committee, which is responsible for developing and executing the organization’s annual fundraising campaign. Expertise: Market Research & Competitive Intelligence Business Strategy Strategic Marketing & Sales Enablement Internal Communications, Employee Engagement, & Change Management Program Management

  Managing
  Director, Capital Markets

  Jennifer@breakwaterstrategy.com

  With a broad functional and business background in strategy development, go-to-market positioning, and driving execution, Jennifer is focused on supporting and elevating Breakwater’s capital markets strategy.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Jennifer worked for Fortune 100 companies in both healthcare and financial services across strategy, operations, product, marketing, research, and communications. Jennifer has experience leading through turnarounds, accelerating business transformation, entering new markets, and pivoting strategy to drive growth in existing markets. Additionally, Jennifer has experience standing up new strategic partnerships and supporting the integration of acquisitions.

  Jennifer graduated from Wellesley College, with a B.A. in Political Science, and is active in the Hartford Wellesley Club. She is also the Chair of the FCC Simsbury Stewardship Committee, which is responsible for developing and executing the organization’s annual fundraising campaign.

  Expertise:

  • Market Research & Competitive Intelligence
  • Business Strategy
  • Strategic Marketing & Sales Enablement
  • Internal Communications, Employee Engagement, & Change Management
  • Program Management

• 

  Taylor Pearson

  Taylor Pearson is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. She brings a wealth of experience in crisis communications, litigation communications, corporate communications, and broadcast media. Most recently, Taylor was a Director at Trident DMG where she led communications campaigns ranging from a local charter school to one of the most read newspapers in the world. Before Trident, Taylor was a booking producer at CBS News and a production assistant at MSNBC. During her tenure, she field produced the 2021 March on Washington, the 2020 State of the Union, and the 2020 South Carolina primary, among other historic events. Taylor also has experience in the policymaking world, including internships with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars’ Africa Program and the late Congressman Elijah E. Cummings. Taylor received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (previously known as the “Woodrow Wilson School”), with a minor in African American Studies. There, she earned accolades for her work with the Association of Black Women and the Latinos y Amigos student groups as well as for her original reporting on racial discrepancies in time off taken from the university. She is likewise proud of a musical she helped write using archival documents from the Princeton & Slavery Project. Taylor spent a semester in Paris studying French history, politics, media, and art at L’Institut d’Études Politiques de Paris (colloquially referred to as “Sciences Po”). While abroad, she also independently researched and proposed policy solutions to the Greek economic crisis with a Princeton task force. Taylor has lived in various states but feels the most at home in the Princeton, NJ, area where she went to boarding school and college. She currently resides in the Northwest Corridor of Washington, D.C., and, in her free time, you can find her at Busboys & Poets’ Open Mic Night or at the DuPont Circle Farmer’s Market.

  Director
  

  taylor@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Taylor Pearson is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. She brings a wealth of experience in crisis communications, litigation communications, corporate communications, and broadcast media. Most recently, Taylor was a Director at Trident DMG where she led communications campaigns ranging from a local charter school to one of the most read newspapers in the world.

  Before Trident, Taylor was a booking producer at CBS News and a production assistant at MSNBC. During her tenure, she field produced the 2021 March on Washington, the 2020 State of the Union, and the 2020 South Carolina primary, among other historic events. Taylor also has experience in the policymaking world, including internships with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars’ Africa Program and the late Congressman Elijah E. Cummings.

  Taylor received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (previously known as the “Woodrow Wilson School”), with a minor in African American Studies. There, she earned accolades for her work with the Association of Black Women and the Latinos y Amigos student groups as well as for her original reporting on racial discrepancies in time off taken from the university. She is likewise proud of a musical she helped write using archival documents from the Princeton & Slavery Project.

  Taylor spent a semester in Paris studying French history, politics, media, and art at L’Institut d’Études Politiques de Paris (colloquially referred to as “Sciences Po”). While abroad, she also independently researched and proposed policy solutions to the Greek economic crisis with a Princeton task force.

  Taylor has lived in various states but feels the most at home in the Princeton, NJ, area where she went to boarding school and college. She currently resides in the Northwest Corridor of Washington, D.C., and, in her free time, you can find her at Busboys & Poets’ Open Mic Night or at the DuPont Circle Farmer’s Market.

• 

  Haley Prince

  As a Senior Associate, Haley supports the Breakwater team in identifying and executing client goals. She supports senior staff on research needs, media analysis, content drafting, and administrative tasks.   Haley began her time at Breakwater as a communications and research intern before joining the team permanently as an associate. Prior to that, she interned for Kantar, a leading data, insights, and consulting company. She additionally took part in tech giant Watch Mojo’s media and finance internship.   Haley graduated from Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She was granted distinction in the major by the department due to her grade point average and senior thesis. Her passion for politics and women’s rights can be seen through her thesis entitled Sexual Harassment on The Hill: How Partisanship and Polarization Condition Reactions to Sexual Impropriety in Congress. At Yale, she worked for the Office of Development and Alumni Fund. Her work as an Alumni Fund student liaison led her to be selected as the Chair for the Class of 2022. Additionally, Haley co-founded a Students Demand Action chapter at her university to support gun control advocacy work. She also served on the board of the Yale Women’s Leadership Initiative. Throughout her college experience she was heavily involved in other service initiatives and her sorority.   Born and raised in Washington D.C., Haley found interest in politics before many other age-appropriate things. When she is not working, she is probably making a new friend out of a local cafe barista or Uber driver.  

  Senior
  Associate

  haley@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As a Senior Associate, Haley supports the Breakwater team in identifying and executing client goals. She supports senior staff on research needs, media analysis, content drafting, and administrative tasks.  

  Haley began her time at Breakwater as a communications and research intern before joining the team permanently as an associate. Prior to that, she interned for Kantar, a leading data, insights, and consulting company. She additionally took part in tech giant Watch Mojo’s media and finance internship.  

  Haley graduated from Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She was granted distinction in the major by the department due to her grade point average and senior thesis. Her passion for politics and women’s rights can be seen through her thesis entitled Sexual Harassment on The Hill: How Partisanship and Polarization Condition Reactions to Sexual Impropriety in Congress. At Yale, she worked for the Office of Development and Alumni Fund. Her work as an Alumni Fund student liaison led her to be selected as the Chair for the Class of 2022. Additionally, Haley co-founded a Students Demand Action chapter at her university to support gun control advocacy work. She also served on the board of the Yale Women’s Leadership Initiative. Throughout her college experience she was heavily involved in other service initiatives and her sorority.  

  Born and raised in Washington D.C., Haley found interest in politics before many other age-appropriate things. When she is not working, she is probably making a new friend out of a local cafe barista or Uber driver.  

• 

  Reagan Putnam

  Reagan Putnam is a Senior Associate at Breakwater Strategy within the Capital Markets practice, based in Washington D.C. She provides ongoing support for the team’s core research functions and helps develop actionable recommendations for stakeholders. With a background in consulting and financial markets, Reagan has experience helping clients navigate the challenging intersection between strategy, finance, and market dynamics to achieve their goals and drive sustainable growth. She joined Breakwater from the Palladium Group, which focused on impact investing projects for developing regions in southern Asia and coastal Africa, with a concentration on healthcare infrastructure and improving access to education for women and girls. Previously, Reagan also acted as an investment fellow with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the USDA, where she worked to advise clients on sustainable investment opportunities in emerging markets. Reagan majored in International Affairs and Business (Finance) at the George Washington University in Washington, DC. She is a member of Kappa Delta and works with their national philanthropies. She also volunteers her time with the Junior League. In her free time, Reagan enjoys staying active through fitness and tennis, indulging her passion for writing, learning languages, and running her book club. Expertise: Market Research Strategic Communications

  Senior
  Associate, Capital Markets

  reagan@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Reagan Putnam is a Senior Associate at Breakwater Strategy within the Capital Markets practice, based in Washington D.C. She provides ongoing support for the team’s core research functions and helps develop actionable recommendations for stakeholders.

  With a background in consulting and financial markets, Reagan has experience helping clients navigate the challenging intersection between strategy, finance, and market dynamics to achieve their goals and drive sustainable growth.

  She joined Breakwater from the Palladium Group, which focused on impact investing projects for developing regions in southern Asia and coastal Africa, with a concentration on healthcare infrastructure and improving access to education for women and girls. Previously, Reagan also acted as an investment fellow with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the USDA, where she worked to advise clients on sustainable investment opportunities in emerging markets.

  Reagan majored in International Affairs and Business (Finance) at the George Washington University in Washington, DC. She is a member of Kappa Delta and works with their national philanthropies. She also volunteers her time with the Junior League. In her free time, Reagan enjoys staying active through fitness and tennis, indulging her passion for writing, learning languages, and running her book club.

  Expertise:

  • Market Research
  • Strategic Communications

• 

  Nick Rosenberg

  Nick leads the Research & Insights team, developing, executing, and analyzing public opinion research to inform Breakwater’s strategic guidance. He crafts integrated research programs that leverage quantitative, qualitative, and digital methodologies to help navigate complex challenges and provide actionable findings. Nick advises wide-ranging strategy initiatives and public affairs campaigns for companies and trade associations across industries.  Prior to joining Breakwater Strategy, Nick worked for several years at PSB Insights, a global research and analytics consultancy and member of the BCW Group. During his time at PSB, Nick managed expansive research engagements including dynamic crisis responses, global mixed-methodology studies, and stakeholder communications efforts for blue-chip corporations, leading non-profits, and prominent government agencies. Nick’s introduction to strategic communications research came as an intern at the Glover Park Group, where he learned to appreciate the value of learning what people think and why.  Nick graduated from Colby College, with distinction in Government and Economics. Nick is a Beltway native. He was born in Glover Park, DC, grew up in Bethesda, MD, and is a long-suffering D.C. sports fan. When he’s not working, he’s probably checking the latest election polling on RealClearPolitics, or listening to his favorite podcasts from the Ringer. 

  Vice
  President

  nick@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Nick leads the Research & Insights team, developing, executing, and analyzing public opinion research to inform Breakwater’s strategic guidance. He crafts integrated research programs that leverage quantitative, qualitative, and digital methodologies to help navigate complex challenges and provide actionable findings. Nick advises wide-ranging strategy initiatives and public affairs campaigns for companies and trade associations across industries. 

  Prior to joining Breakwater Strategy, Nick worked for several years at PSB Insights, a global research and analytics consultancy and member of the BCW Group. During his time at PSB, Nick managed expansive research engagements including dynamic crisis responses, global mixed-methodology studies, and stakeholder communications efforts for blue-chip corporations, leading non-profits, and prominent government agencies. Nick’s introduction to strategic communications research came as an intern at the Glover Park Group, where he learned to appreciate the value of learning what people think and why. 

  Nick graduated from Colby College, with distinction in Government and Economics. Nick is a Beltway native. He was born in Glover Park, DC, grew up in Bethesda, MD, and is a long-suffering D.C. sports fan. When he’s not working, he’s probably checking the latest election polling on RealClearPolitics, or listening to his favorite podcasts from the Ringer. 

• 

  Peyton Shelburne

  Peyton Shelburne is a Senior Associate on the Capital Markets team at Breakwater Strategy. She supports the team’s research initiatives by developing actionable insights and tailored recommendations to stakeholders. Peyton’s background includes marketing and content strategy roles at data-driven companies. Before joining Breakwater, she held a marketing position at Akkio, an AI-powered data platform for advertising agencies, where she contributed to ABM strategies and campaign development. Prior to that, she spent over three years at Morning Consult, a global data intelligence company, as part of the content strategy and operations team. In her role, she authored original content, streamlined internal processes, and analyzed survey data to update trend tracker webpages across various sectors, strengthening the company’s insights-driven offerings. Peyton graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University with a B.A. in linguistics and a minor in Chinese. Outside of work, Peyton enjoys following and playing tennis. She also loves volleyball, curating music playlists, and exploring hiking trails. Expertise: Market Research Marketing

  Senior
  Associate, Capital Markets

  peyton@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Peyton Shelburne is a Senior Associate on the Capital Markets team at Breakwater Strategy. She supports the team’s research initiatives by developing actionable insights and tailored recommendations to stakeholders.

  Peyton’s background includes marketing and content strategy roles at data-driven companies. Before joining Breakwater, she held a marketing position at Akkio, an AI-powered data platform for advertising agencies, where she contributed to ABM strategies and campaign development. Prior to that, she spent over three years at Morning Consult, a global data intelligence company, as part of the content strategy and operations team. In her role, she authored original content, streamlined internal processes, and analyzed survey data to update trend tracker webpages across various sectors, strengthening the company’s insights-driven offerings.

  Peyton graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University with a B.A. in linguistics and a minor in Chinese.

  Outside of work, Peyton enjoys following and playing tennis. She also loves volleyball, curating music playlists, and exploring hiking trails.

  Expertise:

  • Market Research
  • Marketing

• 

  Stephanie Swartz

  Stephanie Swartz is a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy. Stephanie has spent her career helping companies tackle their most intricate and sensitive policy issues. She leverages that expertise to help clients facing complex challenges at the intersection of corporate reputation, business strategy, corporate social responsibility, and technology policy. Stephanie most recently built the policy and public affairs team from the ground up at The Pill Club, a direct-to-consumer telehealth and pharmacy delivery company dedicated to expanding access to contraceptive care. During her tenure, she worked as part of The Pill Club’s leadership team to advance corporate interests and build the company’s reputation with advocates, researchers, government and elected officials, and insurance providers and payers. Prior to that, Stephanie served as Uber’s lead on Safety and Consumer Protection as part of Uber's global public policy strategy team. She drove the creation and launch of Uber's groundbreaking Safety Transparency Report, which provided a detailed account of safety incidents, including sensitive issues like sexual assaults on the platform. Stephanie began her career on Google’s global policy strategy team, where she gained valuable experience in addressing global privacy issues that affect billions of users, shaping her path towards becoming a recognized authority in the field. Stephanie graduated from California State University Long Beach with degrees in German Studies and International Studies and holds an MPhil in International Relations from Oxford University, where she was a Rhodes Scholar. Stephanie lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband and dog and enjoys exploring the vibrant DMV area. As a native of San Diego—and a huge Padres fan—her heart still holds a special place for surfing, a passion that continues to draw her back to the West Coast.

  Vice
  President

  Stephanie@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Stephanie Swartz is a Vice President at Breakwater Strategy. Stephanie has spent her career helping companies tackle their most intricate and sensitive policy issues. She leverages that expertise to help clients facing complex challenges at the intersection of corporate reputation, business strategy, corporate social responsibility, and technology policy.

  Stephanie most recently built the policy and public affairs team from the ground up at The Pill Club, a direct-to-consumer telehealth and pharmacy delivery company dedicated to expanding access to contraceptive care. During her tenure, she worked as part of The Pill Club’s leadership team to advance corporate interests and build the company’s reputation with advocates, researchers, government and elected officials, and insurance providers and payers.

  Prior to that, Stephanie served as Uber’s lead on Safety and Consumer Protection as part of Uber’s global public policy strategy team. She drove the creation and launch of Uber’s groundbreaking Safety Transparency Report, which provided a detailed account of safety incidents, including sensitive issues like sexual assaults on the platform. Stephanie began her career on Google’s global policy strategy team, where she gained valuable experience in addressing global privacy issues that affect billions of users, shaping her path towards becoming a recognized authority in the field.

  Stephanie graduated from California State University Long Beach with degrees in German Studies and International Studies and holds an MPhil in International Relations from Oxford University, where she was a Rhodes Scholar. Stephanie lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband and dog and enjoys exploring the vibrant DMV area. As a native of San Diego—and a huge Padres fan—her heart still holds a special place for surfing, a passion that continues to draw her back to the West Coast.

• 

  Karianna Torres

  Karianna works with senior staff to create strategic communications campaigns and develop impactful messaging materials. Her main responsibilities include planning and producing social content, tracking and analyzing media, sharing insights from qualitative research, and creating written client deliverables. She has experience and knowledge of a wide array of industries including entertainment, tech, financial services, and non-profit.  Prior to joining Breakwater, Karianna was an Education Relations Intern for C-SPAN where she created content for their education website and helped generate press coverage for C-SPAN’s 2019 StudentCam Competition. She also drafted blog post articles as a Community Contributor for SHE Media and managed the daily operations as an intern for DREAM Charter High School in East Harlem.  Karianna graduated from Hamilton College with a bachelor’s degree in Literature and a minor in Mathematics as a HEOP Scholar. While at Hamilton, Karianna worked as a student assistant for Nesbitt-Johnston Writing Center, participated in Hamilton’s Washington D.C. program, and was an active leader of La Vanguardia, Hamilton’s Latinx cultural club.    Karianna was born and raised in the Bronx, so of course she is a die-hard Yankees fan. Growing up she tried to memorize every train and bus route that ran through the Bronx so that she could traverse the whole borough with ease. She loves how the Bronx is full of diverse hard-working people. 

  Senior
  Associate

  karianna@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Karianna works with senior staff to create strategic communications campaigns and develop impactful messaging materials. Her main responsibilities include planning and producing social content, tracking and analyzing media, sharing insights from qualitative research, and creating written client deliverables. She has experience and knowledge of a wide array of industries including entertainment, tech, financial services, and non-profit. 

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Karianna was an Education Relations Intern for C-SPAN where she created content for their education website and helped generate press coverage for C-SPAN’s 2019 StudentCam Competition. She also drafted blog post articles as a Community Contributor for SHE Media and managed the daily operations as an intern for DREAM Charter High School in East Harlem. 

  Karianna graduated from Hamilton College with a bachelor’s degree in Literature and a minor in Mathematics as a HEOP Scholar. While at Hamilton, Karianna worked as a student assistant for Nesbitt-Johnston Writing Center, participated in Hamilton’s Washington D.C. program, and was an active leader of La Vanguardia, Hamilton’s Latinx cultural club.   

  Karianna was born and raised in the Bronx, so of course she is a die-hard Yankees fan. Growing up she tried to memorize every train and bus route that ran through the Bronx so that she could traverse the whole borough with ease. She loves how the Bronx is full of diverse hard-working people. 

• 

  Maggie Tween

  Maggie Tween is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy on the Capital Markets team, based in New York. In her role, she supports senior staff on market research and client interaction. With prior internship experience in financial research, Maggie’s professional foundation lies at the intersection of global markets and client advisory. Maggie graduated from Boston College as an Economics major, where she was involved in volunteer groups, business organizations, and club sports. With minors in Finance and English, she developed her passions for both business and writing during her time at BC. Outside of work, Maggie can be found at the gym or on a run, and cheering on the Mets in the summer and the Rangers in the winter.

  Associate,
  Capital Markets

  maggie.tween@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Maggie Tween is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy on the Capital Markets team, based in New York. In her role, she supports senior staff on market research and client interaction. With prior internship experience in financial research, Maggie’s professional foundation lies at the intersection of global markets and client advisory.

  Maggie graduated from Boston College as an Economics major, where she was involved in volunteer groups, business organizations, and club sports. With minors in Finance and English, she developed her passions for both business and writing during her time at BC.

  Outside of work, Maggie can be found at the gym or on a run, and cheering on the Mets in the summer and the Rangers in the winter.

• 

  Kay Vollmar

  As an Associate at Breakwater, Kay supports clients and senior staff with the development of strategic research and messaging materials. Kay also assists in managing internal operations. Hailing from the University of Michigan, Kay comes to Breakwater with a degree in Public Policy and minor in Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences. As part of their degree program, Kay completed an independent study on political communications trends in social media. Outside of their studies, Kay also founded and ran operations for Michigan’s first Undergraduate Law Review. Prior to joining Breakwater as an Associate, Kay interned with the group virtually and in their New York office. In their final year of university, they also worked in Michigan's Executive Office of Communications for Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Along with social media and press relations work, they wrote biweekly talking points for the State of Michigan’s 50,000+ employees on President Trump’s first 100 days in office. When not at the office, Kay can be found trying to unlock all the features on Beli, at way too many book clubs, and proudly wearing Maize and Blue.

  Associate
  

  kay@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As an Associate at Breakwater, Kay supports clients and senior staff with the development of strategic research and messaging materials. Kay also assists in managing internal operations.

  Hailing from the University of Michigan, Kay comes to Breakwater with a degree in Public Policy and minor in Quantitative Methods in the Social Sciences. As part of their degree program, Kay completed an independent study on political communications trends in social media. Outside of their studies, Kay also founded and ran operations for Michigan’s first Undergraduate Law Review.

  Prior to joining Breakwater as an Associate, Kay interned with the group virtually and in their New York office. In their final year of university, they also worked in Michigan’s Executive Office of Communications for Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Along with social media and press relations work, they wrote biweekly talking points for the State of Michigan’s 50,000+ employees on President Trump’s first 100 days in office.

  When not at the office, Kay can be found trying to unlock all the features on Beli, at way too many book clubs, and proudly wearing Maize and Blue.

• 

  Adi Volosov

  As Senior Associate and Associate Director of Operations at Breakwater, Adi assists with both client advisory and internal operations. She engages her policy-focused background to assist clients and senior staff with the development of strategic communications and messaging materials, including thought leadership pieces, op-eds, policy memos, media analyses, and more. She also manages hiring, internal programming, and day-to-day operations of the firm. Prior to joining Breakwater, Adi held several internships within the US federal government, including the House of Representatives, focusing specifically on criminal justice equity and policy. She graduated with a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and History from the University of Maryland, College Park, and is pursuing her Masters in Public Policy at Georgetown University. While at the University of Maryland, she was also part of Global Communities, an Honors living and learning program focused on global policy. As part of this program, she studied abroad in London and Vienna, focusing on the history and policy development of nuclear non-proliferation issues. She is fluent in Russian. Born in Jerusalem, Israel, Adi was raised in Newton, MA, and currently resides in Washington D.C., where she continues to defend her Massachusetts roots—and more importantly, her sports teams—with pride.

  Senior
  Associate

  adi@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As Senior Associate and Associate Director of Operations at Breakwater, Adi assists with both client advisory and internal operations. She engages her policy-focused background to assist clients and senior staff with the development of strategic communications and messaging materials, including thought leadership pieces, op-eds, policy memos, media analyses, and more. She also manages hiring, internal programming, and day-to-day operations of the firm.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Adi held several internships within the US federal government, including the House of Representatives, focusing specifically on criminal justice equity and policy. She graduated with a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and History from the University of Maryland, College Park, and is pursuing her Masters in Public Policy at Georgetown University. While at the University of Maryland, she was also part of Global Communities, an Honors living and learning program focused on global policy. As part of this program, she studied abroad in London and Vienna, focusing on the history and policy development of nuclear non-proliferation issues. She is fluent in Russian.

  Born in Jerusalem, Israel, Adi was raised in Newton, MA, and currently resides in Washington D.C., where she continues to defend her Massachusetts roots—and more importantly, her sports teams—with pride.

• 

  Nora Wahlbrink

  Nora Wahlbrink is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. In her role, Nora works directly with clients and senior leadership to manage emerging risks in the marketplace, on the Hill and with all stakeholders. As a skilled writer and communicator, she is responsible for crafting messaging and using it to develop a suite of public deliverables such as press releases, blog posts, and social content. Though she specializes in the entertainment and technology industries, she also has experience in health, telecommunication, financial services, news media and more. She is particularly passionate about the role of the media in public relations and preparing spokespeople for successful high-stakes public appearances and interactions with reporters.  Prior to joining the Breakwater team, Nora worked at Levick, a D.C.-based crisis communications firm, where she addressed rapid response issues. She has experience communicating around high-profile litigation, mergers and acquisitions, executive transitions, data breaches, foreign policy, personal events, and other issues. Originally from Rockville, MD, Nora graduated with honors from the University of Alabama as a presidential scholar with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a minor in Business.  Nora loves to cook and explore the DC food scene. When she’s not working, she’s most likely reading about a new restaurant, searching for weekend reservations, or on a good night – making something delicious at home. If you’re in need of a restaurant recommendation in the DC area, look no further. 

  Director
  

  nora@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Nora Wahlbrink is a Director at Breakwater Strategy. In her role, Nora works directly with clients and senior leadership to manage emerging risks in the marketplace, on the Hill and with all stakeholders. As a skilled writer and communicator, she is responsible for crafting messaging and using it to develop a suite of public deliverables such as press releases, blog posts, and social content. Though she specializes in the entertainment and technology industries, she also has experience in health, telecommunication, financial services, news media and more. She is particularly passionate about the role of the media in public relations and preparing spokespeople for successful high-stakes public appearances and interactions with reporters. 

  Prior to joining the Breakwater team, Nora worked at Levick, a D.C.-based crisis communications firm, where she addressed rapid response issues. She has experience communicating around high-profile litigation, mergers and acquisitions, executive transitions, data breaches, foreign policy, personal events, and other issues. Originally from Rockville, MD, Nora graduated with honors from the University of Alabama as a presidential scholar with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a minor in Business. 

  Nora loves to cook and explore the DC food scene. When she’s not working, she’s most likely reading about a new restaurant, searching for weekend reservations, or on a good night – making something delicious at home. If you’re in need of a restaurant recommendation in the DC area, look no further. 

• 

  Steve Weber

  As a Partner at Breakwater, Steve brings his core expertise in strategy and decision making to the most complex challenges facing organizations at the intersection of economics, technology, politics, regulation, and human understanding through narrative.  Alongside a thirty-year academic career at the University of California Berkeley (where he has a joint appointment as Professor at the School of Information and in the department of Political Science), Steve has advised global firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations around the world on risk analysis, strategy, and communications, using a diverse set of qualitative and quantitative methods fit to purpose. Recognized as one of the world’s most expert practitioners of scenario planning, Steve has worked with more than 50 companies and organizations to develop this discipline as a strategy planning tool in uncertain and turbulent business environments. He started his advisory career at the boutique consulting firm Global Business Network in the 1990s and in the 2000s worked with The Monitor Group to help clients navigate transitions in information technology, finance, health care, consumer goods, and other sectors transformed by digital and by evolving global and national political economy.  Steve served as special political advisor to the first president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. He was Director of the Institute of International Studies at UC Berkeley from 2003 to 2009, and in 2015 he founded the Center for Long Term Cybersecurity at UC Berkeley, where he directs a multi-disciplinary research program on emerging digital security issues at the intersection of new technologies, human behavior, and risk calculations made by firms and governments. His best-known book, The Success of Open Source, was the first extensive study of how the open source software community works. His most recent book  Bloc by Bloc:  How to Organize a Global Enterprise (2019) explains how economic geography is evolving around machine learning, and the consequences for multinational organizations in the post financial and Covid crises world.  Steve brings a research-based innovation discipline to strategy and communications problems, along with a deep commitment to creative engagement with how people understand their environment, change their minds, and ultimately change the world through narrative. Steve lives in the Hudson River Valley north of New York City with his partner Regina and two Burmese cats named Napoleon and Mrs. Peel.  All four are life-long-suffering fans of the New York Football Giants. 

  Partner
  

  steve@breakwaterstrategy.com

  As a Partner at Breakwater, Steve brings his core expertise in strategy and decision making to the most complex challenges facing organizations at the intersection of economics, technology, politics, regulation, and human understanding through narrative. 

  Alongside a thirty-year academic career at the University of California Berkeley (where he has a joint appointment as Professor at the School of Information and in the department of Political Science), Steve has advised global firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations around the world on risk analysis, strategy, and communications, using a diverse set of qualitative and quantitative methods fit to purpose. Recognized as one of the world’s most expert practitioners of scenario planning, Steve has worked with more than 50 companies and organizations to develop this discipline as a strategy planning tool in uncertain and turbulent business environments. He started his advisory career at the boutique consulting firm Global Business Network in the 1990s and in the 2000s worked with The Monitor Group to help clients navigate transitions in information technology, finance, health care, consumer goods, and other sectors transformed by digital and by evolving global and national political economy. 

  Steve served as special political advisor to the first president of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. He was Director of the Institute of International Studies at UC Berkeley from 2003 to 2009, and in 2015 he founded the Center for Long Term Cybersecurity at UC Berkeley, where he directs a multi-disciplinary research program on emerging digital security issues at the intersection of new technologies, human behavior, and risk calculations made by firms and governments. His best-known book, The Success of Open Source, was the first extensive study of how the open source software community works. His most recent book  Bloc by Bloc:  How to Organize a Global Enterprise (2019) explains how economic geography is evolving around machine learning, and the consequences for multinational organizations in the post financial and Covid crises world. 

  Steve brings a research-based innovation discipline to strategy and communications problems, along with a deep commitment to creative engagement with how people understand their environment, change their minds, and ultimately change the world through narrative. Steve lives in the Hudson River Valley north of New York City with his partner Regina and two Burmese cats named Napoleon and Mrs. Peel.  All four are life-long-suffering fans of the New York Football Giants. 

• 

  Ben Williams

  A Director at Breakwater Strategy, Ben brings a passion for brand positioning, leadership and policy to develop strategic communications programs across an array of issues and industries. His main responsibilities include strategic advisory, messaging and content development, media relations and internal and external project management. He has helped advise clients from Fortune 500’s to nonprofits, and collaborated with leaders to develop and execute strategies to position brands within complex political and regulatory environments, elevate profiles, launch new initiatives, successfully navigate crises and more.   Prior to joining Breakwater, Ben got his start in strategic communications in the D.C. office of High Lantern Group, a strategic communications and positioning firm, where he worked on a number of global communications and issues management projects. From 2013-2016, he was on the research team at Correct The Record a part of the coordinated Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, where he helped shape the positive narrative around Secretary Clinton’s service at the State Department.     A Massachusetts native and sometimes Mainer, Ben has a BA in history from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. When he’s not at home in DC with his wife, dog and cat, he can be found supporting his favorite Boston sports teams, relaxing in Maine, skiing or at a Pearl Jam show. 

  Director
  

  ben@breakwaterstrategy.com

  A Director at Breakwater Strategy, Ben brings a passion for brand positioning, leadership and policy to develop strategic communications programs across an array of issues and industries. His main responsibilities include strategic advisory, messaging and content development, media relations and internal and external project management. He has helped advise clients from Fortune 500’s to nonprofits, and collaborated with leaders to develop and execute strategies to position brands within complex political and regulatory environments, elevate profiles, launch new initiatives, successfully navigate crises and more.  

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Ben got his start in strategic communications in the D.C. office of High Lantern Group, a strategic communications and positioning firm, where he worked on a number of global communications and issues management projects. From 2013-2016, he was on the research team at Correct The Record a part of the coordinated Hillary Clinton presidential campaign, where he helped shape the positive narrative around Secretary Clinton’s service at the State Department.    

  A Massachusetts native and sometimes Mainer, Ben has a BA in history from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. When he’s not at home in DC with his wife, dog and cat, he can be found supporting his favorite Boston sports teams, relaxing in Maine, skiing or at a Pearl Jam show. 

• 

  Zoe Wynn

  Zoe is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where she conducts policy research and analysis to develop strategic communications and media recommendations for clients. She additionally supports senior staff in scenario planning and strategic messaging. Prior to joining Breakwater, Zoe worked as a Research Associate at the Democratic National Committee (DNC). During the 2024 election cycle, she analyzed policy proposals from Donald Trump's presidential campaign and developed strategic messaging frameworks for the American public. Zoe's passion for policy research, democracy protection, and advocacy led her to her role at the DNC following a post-graduate internship with Ambassador Norman Eisen's Ethics, Rule of Law, and Accountability team at the Brookings Institution. While at Brookings, Zoe co-authored a blog with Ambassador Eisen arguing for specific state legislative protections for female election officials. Zoe also served as the Maine State Director for the Every Voice Coalition, a national organization working to end sexual violence on college campuses through state-based advocacy and legislation. In May of 2022, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed Every Voice's comprehensive campus safety legislation into law. Zoe graduated magna cum laude with Honors from Bates College, earning a Major in Politics and a Minor in Spanish. While at Bates, Zoe was named a Dana Scholar, an award granted to students demonstrating academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership potential. She served as captain of the Women's Club Water Polo Team and studied international policy in Sevilla, Spain. Her undergraduate Honors Politics thesis examined how state election law centralization affects local election officials' resilience to misinformation and threats. A Bay Area native now based in Washington, DC, Zoe spent a year living and working in Latin America and is fluent in Spanish. True to her West Coast roots, she spends her free time running, swimming, hiking, and skiing.

  Associate
  

  zoe@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Zoe is an Associate at Breakwater Strategy, where she conducts policy research and analysis to develop strategic communications and media recommendations for clients. She additionally supports senior staff in scenario planning and strategic messaging.

  Prior to joining Breakwater, Zoe worked as a Research Associate at the Democratic National Committee (DNC). During the 2024 election cycle, she analyzed policy proposals from Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and developed strategic messaging frameworks for the American public. Zoe’s passion for policy research, democracy protection, and advocacy led her to her role at the DNC following a post-graduate internship with Ambassador Norman Eisen’s Ethics, Rule of Law, and Accountability team at the Brookings Institution. While at Brookings, Zoe co-authored a blog with Ambassador Eisen arguing for specific state legislative protections for female election officials. Zoe also served as the Maine State Director for the Every Voice Coalition, a national organization working to end sexual violence on college campuses through state-based advocacy and legislation. In May of 2022, Maine Governor Janet Mills signed Every Voice’s comprehensive campus safety legislation into law.

  Zoe graduated magna cum laude with Honors from Bates College, earning a Major in Politics and a Minor in Spanish. While at Bates, Zoe was named a Dana Scholar, an award granted to students demonstrating academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership potential. She served as captain of the Women’s Club Water Polo Team and studied international policy in Sevilla, Spain. Her undergraduate Honors Politics thesis examined how state election law centralization affects local election officials’ resilience to misinformation and threats.

  A Bay Area native now based in Washington, DC, Zoe spent a year living and working in Latin America and is fluent in Spanish. True to her West Coast roots, she spends her free time running, swimming, hiking, and skiing.

Senior Advisors

• 

  Gary Ginsberg

  Gary Ginsberg is a lawyer, corporate advisor, author and venture fund partner, serving at the intersection of media, politics, investing and philanthropy for more than 25 years. A native of Buffalo, New York, Ginsberg is a magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Brown University and the Columbia University School of Law, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.  He began his legal career as an attorney at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. He left the firm in 1992 for a position in the Clinton presidential campaign and later served in the Clinton Administration in the Office of the White House Counsel and at the U.S. Department of Justice. In 1995, Ginsberg became Senior Editor and legal counsel of George, the monthly political magazine started by John F. Kennedy, Jr. Ginsberg spent eleven years at News Corporation as the company’s Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and Corporate Affairs and a member of the Chairman’s seven-person Executive Management Committee. In 2010, he joined Time Warner as the entertainment company’s Executive Vice President for Corporate Marketing and Communications, where he led the company’s integrated sales and marketing division, the Time Warner Foundation and was responsible for evangelizing the company’s major initiatives across the media landscape. After the sale of the company to AT&T in 2018, Ginsberg joined Softbank as the company’s Senior Vice President and Global Chief Communications Officer, where he remained until December 2020. Ginsberg is the author of the New York Times bestseller First Friends: The Powerful, Unsung (And Unelected) People Who Shaped Our Presidents (Twelve). He has published opinion pieces in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and CNN.com, and was a former on-air political contributor to MSNBC. Ginsberg is the chairman of the Board of New Visions for Public Schools, New York City’s premier educational reform organization; he is also a Director of The City, the online not-for-profit news service covering NYC, and Malaria No More.  From 2015-2018, Ginsberg was an adjunct professor at the Columbia University Business School where he co-taught the course Entrepreneurship in Incumbent Media. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Ginsberg is a founding partner of 25Madison, the New York City-based VC firm and start-up studio.  He is also a director of Schrodinger, Inc. (Nasdaq: SDGR) and Townsquare Media, Inc. (NYSE: TSQ). He lives in New York City with his wife Susanna Aaron and two sons.

  Senior
  Advisor

  Gary Ginsberg is a lawyer, corporate advisor, author and venture fund partner, serving at the intersection of media, politics, investing and philanthropy for more than 25 years.

  A native of Buffalo, New York, Ginsberg is a magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Brown University and the Columbia University School of Law, where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.  He began his legal career as an attorney at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett. He left the firm in 1992 for a position in the Clinton presidential campaign and later served in the Clinton Administration in the Office of the White House Counsel and at the U.S. Department of Justice. In 1995, Ginsberg became Senior Editor and legal counsel of George, the monthly political magazine started by John F. Kennedy, Jr.

  Ginsberg spent eleven years at News Corporation as the company’s Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and Corporate Affairs and a member of the Chairman’s seven-person Executive Management Committee. In 2010, he joined Time Warner as the entertainment company’s Executive Vice President for Corporate Marketing and Communications, where he led the company’s integrated sales and marketing division, the Time Warner Foundation and was responsible for evangelizing the company’s major initiatives across the media landscape. After the sale of the company to AT&T in 2018, Ginsberg joined Softbank as the company’s Senior Vice President and Global Chief Communications Officer, where he remained until December 2020.

  Ginsberg is the author of the New York Times bestseller First Friends: The Powerful, Unsung (And Unelected) People Who Shaped Our Presidents (Twelve). He has published opinion pieces in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and CNN.com, and was a former on-air political contributor to MSNBC.

  Ginsberg is the chairman of the Board of New Visions for Public Schools, New York City’s premier educational reform organization; he is also a Director of The City, the online not-for-profit news service covering NYC, and Malaria No More.  From 2015-2018, Ginsberg was an adjunct professor at the Columbia University Business School where he co-taught the course Entrepreneurship in Incumbent Media. He is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

  Ginsberg is a founding partner of 25Madison, the New York City-based VC firm and start-up studio.  He is also a director of Schrodinger, Inc. (Nasdaq: SDGR) and Townsquare Media, Inc. (NYSE: TSQ).

  He lives in New York City with his wife Susanna Aaron and two sons.

• 

  Marilyn Olson

  Marilyn Olson draws upon her robust background in corporate, internal, and crisis communications, as well as change management and M&A, to help clients educate, engage, and inspire their most critical audiences. She has extensive experience advising companies through the process of transforming their organization and audiences’ perceptions, including post-M&A integrations, complex financial transactions, and pivotal cultural change. In both in-house and consulting roles, Marilyn has deep experience working with major global technology and financial services companies, including Dell Technologies, Visa Inc., and The Charles Schwab Corporation. She has led complex, integrated campaigns reaching multiple audiences across various industry sectors. She has driven successful internal communications programs and high-profile events, reinforcing her ability to influence corporate culture and enhance employee engagement. A graduate of UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts in History, Marilyn is an award-winning communicator recognized by the International Association of Business Communicators and co-founded a nonprofit focused on community development. She lives in her native San Diego with her husband, three children, and a very loved dog.

  Senior
  Advisor

  marilyn@breakwaterstrategy.com

  Marilyn Olson draws upon her robust background in corporate, internal, and crisis communications, as well as change management and M&A, to help clients educate, engage, and inspire their most critical audiences. She has extensive experience advising companies through the process of transforming their organization and audiences’ perceptions, including post-M&A integrations, complex financial transactions, and pivotal cultural change.

  In both in-house and consulting roles, Marilyn has deep experience working with major global technology and financial services companies, including Dell Technologies, Visa Inc., and The Charles Schwab Corporation. She has led complex, integrated campaigns reaching multiple audiences across various industry sectors. She has driven successful internal communications programs and high-profile events, reinforcing her ability to influence corporate culture and enhance employee engagement.

  A graduate of UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts in History, Marilyn is an award-winning communicator recognized by the International Association of Business Communicators and co-founded a nonprofit focused on community development. She lives in her native San Diego with her husband, three children, and a very loved dog.