Ballard Partners is expanding its bench of senior talent with the addition of Eileen Stuart, David Childs and Andrew Liebert as Partners in its Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., offices.
“We are thrilled to welcome Eileen, David, and Andrew to Ballard Partners,” said Brian Ballard, the firm’s founder and president. “Each brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of government, and exceptional reputations for integrity and effectiveness. Their combined expertise will further strengthen our firm’s presence in both Tallahassee and Washington.”
Stuart joins the firm after a career spanning both public service and the private sector. Most recently, she was Managing Principal of a boutique lobbying firm across diverse industries. She previously served as vice president for Government and Regulatory Affairs at Mosaic and as Deputy Policy Director in the Governor’s Office, where she managed policy and appropriations initiatives across multiple agencies.
A graduate of FSU College of Law and the University of Florida, she said Ballard Partners “has long set the standard for strategic advocacy and results-driven representation,” adding that she looks forward to helping clients “navigate complex policy challenges across every level of government.”
Childs, a lawyer, lobbyist and engineer, has shaped major legislation on water resource management, environmental policy and energy infrastructure, including Florida’s landmark springs restoration and state infrastructure laws. He has been recognized as a Best Lawyer in America for Environmental Law and named Florida Politics’ Environmental Lobbyist of the Year in 2019.
“I’ve worked for two decades to help clients achieve meaningful results through thoughtful engagement with policymakers,” Childs said. “Joining Ballard Partners provides an unparalleled opportunity to continue that work alongside some of the best professionals in the business.”
Liebert, meanwhile, comes to the firm after more than a decade in state government, most recently as chief legislative aide and senior adviser to Senate President Ben Albritton. He previously served as deputy director of Legislative Affairs at the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under Commissioner Adam Putnam and as a legislative aide in the Florida House.
“Ballard Partners’ success is built on relationships, expertise, and a commitment to excellence,” said Liebert, a Naples native. “I’m excited to bring my legislative and appropriations experience to the firm’s dynamic team and continue serving clients across Florida and beyond.”