After nearly two decades working at the intersection of communications, politics and public policy, Herbie Thiele is betting on himself.
The longtime Sachs Media partner has launched Herbie Thiele Consulting, a government affairs and strategic advisory firm. For years, Thiele has helped clients navigate Tallahassee and the legislative process. Now, he is taking that experience into his own practice.
The new firm will focus on the same mix that has defined Thiele’s career: communications strategy, grassroots advocacy, and a practical understanding of how policy moves through the Capitol.
“I have worked in and around the legislative process for my entire career, closely observing how issues move and how lobbyists build support for their clients,” Thiele said.
“Along the way, I have embraced what I’m genuinely good at, and love doing — connecting communications strategy with policy outcomes. I am excited to take this next step as also a lobbyist, bring my relationships, my understanding of the process, and my communications skills — including how to build real grassroots support — to position my clients’ issues for success both at the Capitol and beyond.”
Herbie Thiele Consulting will take on a range of issues, drawing on Thiele’s experience in financial, water, and local government matters. He plans to register as a lobbyist, representing clients before the Legislature and adding direct government affairs work to the communications and grassroots advocacy that have been central to his career.
Thiele will continue his relationship with Sachs Media, remaining of counsel and sharing office space with the firm.
Several colleagues and industry leaders offered praise for Thiele’s move.
Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd described Thiele as “a person of integrity who knows how to navigate the process and build support for issues.”
“He brings a thoughtful, straightforward approach to his work, and he will be an asset to any organization looking for smart insights and strong relationships,” Boyd said.
Associated Industries of Florida Vice President of Government Affairs Adam Basford highlighted Thiele’s ability to connect policy strategy with communications.
“He understands that moving an issue at the Capitol takes more than knowing the process — it takes the communications skill to build a coalition and the credibility to make people listen,” Basford said. “That’s a rare combination, and it’s going to serve his clients well.”
And Ron Sachs, Thiele’s former employer and longtime mentor, described the move as a natural progression.
“Herbie is a great talent with a widely recognized knack for public affairs. I’ve watched him grow into a respected, well-liked, consummate professional over the years, and this next step is a natural one for him,” Sachs said.
“What sets him apart as a lobbyist is that he brings real communications instinct and a genuine understanding of how to mobilize grassroots support, a combination that will make him a formidable advocate for his clients. We’re all proud to continue supporting him as he builds his firm.”
For Thiele, this move expands his role from shaping communications and public affairs strategy to directly representing clients before lawmakers.
Herbie Thiele Consulting brings together communications skills, grassroots advocacy, and legislative experience as Thiele steps into the lobbying arena under his own name.