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Native Texan Chris Hosek is one of the most established, trustworthy, and hard-working Energy Consultants in Texas. Based in Austin, he is considered an expert in energy policy and rules as well as legislative initiatives at both the state and federal levels. Prior to founding Texas Star Alliance Energy Solutions, he was Chief of Staff for the Chair of the Texas Railroad Commission.

He represents a large cross section of the energy industry. His clients include international companies, domestic producers (in the Permian Basin, Haynesville, and Eagleford), and service companies such as Select Energy Services, to name a few. His work with these companies is two-fold:
Legislative work during each biennial Legislative session and the interim.
Regulatory work and engagement at the executive levels of the Railroad Commission, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, General Land Commission, and other state agencies.

Building off of his experience in the energy space, Chris has expanded his practice to include a variety of different policy issues, including state procurement. Given that oil and gas production touches almost very legislative district in Texas in one way or another, he has developed key legislative relationships across the state that he draws upon for other policy issues. With this in mind, Chris has successfully passed unique and specific legislation for clients in challenging environments. Don't believe us, just ask him about legalizing catfish noodling.

11-15 years

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2019: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

Energy Service Innovator
Nov 2018: D CEO Magazine
Honoring CEOs, CFOs, and Innovators who have made Texas a national and International center for energy activity. D CEO honors leaders in upstream, midstream, services, and finance sectors.

General Industry Service
2018: Oil & Gas Awards - 2018 Texas
Oil & Gas Awards focuses on publicizing the great gains being made by upstream, midstream and downstream companies in the key areas of corporate social responsibility, the environment, and health and safety.

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2017: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2015: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

2013- Who's Who in Energy
Dec 2013: Austin Business Journal
The annual list distinguishes key players across a spectrum of energy industries in several major journal markets across the country. The list includes local national leaders representing different facets of the energy industry, including exploration, production, regulation, distribution, engineering, finance, education, law, and more. Individuals are selected for inclusion through internal research, industry outreach, and an open-nomination process conducted by the business journals of their respective cities.

Rising Star- Texas Lobby
Jan 2013: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

In Texas, the oil and natural gas industry touches every part of the state and every legislative district. The industry anchors the Texas economy by creating high-paying jobs and by generating revenues unmatched by other industries in Texas. Given that Chris' primary focus is natural resources (oil and gas industry), he engages with almost every elected official in one way or another. From tax policy, to school funding, to general appropriations to environment policy, he engages with most elected officials, including statewide. In particular Chris focus on the following committees:
Texas Senate:
Lt Governor's office; Agriculture; Business & Commerce; Education; Finance; Natural Resources & Economic Development; State Affairs; Transportation; Water & Rural Affairs.
Texas House of Representatives:

Speakers office; Agriculture & Livestock; Appropriations; Business & Industry; Energy Resources; Environmental Regulation; Insurance; Land & Resource Management; Natural Resources; Pensions; Investments & Financial Services; Public Education; State Affairs; Transportation; Urban Affairs; Ways & Means.

For Texas State Agencies:
Texas Governor's office; Comptroller of Texas; Railroad Commission of Texas; Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; Texas General Land Office; Texas Department of Agriculture; Texas Attorney General; Texas Department of Transportation; Texas Parks and Wildlife (most Agencies)

Chris Hosek is a principal of Texas Star Alliance, specializing in direct lobbying and state agency relations. He has experience with a broad range of legislative issues and policy initiatives, including a specific expertise in the energy sector. Chris served as the chief of staff for five years to the Chair of the Railroad Commission of Texas. The Railroad Commission is the regulatory body that oversees Texas' energy industries including all levels of the oil and gas industry, pipeline safety, gas utility rates, and the permitting and reclamation of coal and uranium mines.

Prior to his work at the Railroad Commission, Chris served asthe legislative director in the Texas House of Representatives for the 78th and 77th sessions. He was the committee aide to the Appropriations Committee, responsible for drafting the state's two-year budget. He also served as acommittee aide for a member onthe House Energy Resources Committee, where he received his background in the energy field. Chris also served in various roles for elected officials where he managed and developed legislative issues. Other committee experience includes the Urban Affairs Committee and State Recreational Resource Committee.

Chris has met with numerous international trade delegations at the Railroad Commission. He also participated in several trade missions to Mexico, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Philippines, Singapore, and Myanmar. In 2008, the American Council of Young Political Leaders selected Chris as a delegate to participate in an overseas governmental exchange with Taiwan. In 2015, he was asked to lead the same organization to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Qatar.

In 2019, Chris was also named D CEO (Dallas) Magazine's "Innovator of the Year." In 2018, he wonTexas Oil and Gas Award for Service Excellence, the first energy lobbyist to win the award. In 2015, 2017, and 2019, Chris was ranked in the top "Power Ranking" by Capitol Inside, a Texas political publication. In 2013, he was recognized as a "Rising Star" on its 10th annual Texas Lobby Power Rankings.Also, in 2013, the Austin Business Journal named him "Who's Who in Energy."

In addition to serving the legislative needs of his clients, Chris' involvement with the community is robust.He was appointed to serve on the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, a multi-state government entity that is viewed as the authority on domestic oil and gas issues. Chris has also served as an Urban Transportation Commissioner for the City of Austin.

In addition, he sits on the boards ofBallet Austin, the Austin World Affairs Council, and theLone Star Success Academy. This non-profit improves the lives of troubled, at-risk, and vulnerable Texas youth by offering an alternative education. Chris also serves as a Trustee for theAmerican Council for Young Political Leaders, a Washington D.C.-based organization that implements unique international exchange activities for political leaders worldwide. He is active in the Texas State Alumni Association and the Phi Delta Theta Alumni Association.

RUTH WHITNEY

(Arkansas)

inVeritas is a leading global public affairs firm specializing in management consulting, public relations, government relations, and research. With decades of experience, inVeritas is the firm of choice for global companies - a recognized advisor and trusted resource for delivering critical intelligence and proven solutions to address complex business challenges.

Firm Specialties:
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
The inVeritas team has worked at the highest levels of government and has the expertise to guide companies through the nuances of the regulatory, legislative, and administrative arenas. We have a proven track record for passing legislation, securing funding, building coalitions and providing cost containment on disputes.

MARKET RESEARCH
Accurate information is the cornerstone of an effective, winning strategy. Without it, critical decisions are uninformed and time and money are wasted. At inVeritas, each element of our research is carefully customized to meet our clients' objectives. We arm our clients with the intelligence crucial to market expansion, asset protection, and risk mitigation.

At inVeritas, we are proud to offer insight and help inform decisions for our nation's leading companies, law firms, nonprofits, and local, state, and federal governments.

PUBLIC RELATIONS
A strong communications and public relations operation is integral to success in every arena and every sector. Our award winning team helps clients through the various stages of their public relations needs, from crisis management to message development.

STRATEGIC CONSULTING
Our highly experienced consulting team designs actionable strategies to help clients achieve tangible results. With extensive legal, regulatory and government relations experience, our consultants evaluate performance, assess business practices, develop critical capabilities and deliver value by achieving compliance, uncovering opportunities and solving unique problems.

We specialize in administrative and compliance areas typically outside the normal course of business for organizations. As a result, we are in a unique position to provide meaningful insights and a broad range of capabilities, including deep industry knowledge of healthcare, energy, tax, public finance, procurement, transportation, information technology and cyber security.

RUTH H. WHITNEY is the founder and CEO of inVeritas. Ruth serves as a strategic advisor to clients based on over 25 years of expertise in law, government, politics and public opinion. She has been privileged to advise Global 500 companies, prominent professional services firms, state and federal governments, law firms, nonprofit corporations and industry associations.

Ruth earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association and is admitted to practice in Arkansas and the U.S. District Courts in Arkansas. Ruth has also been admitted pro hac vice in various jurisdictions in the course of her service as a national jury consultant.

Before founding inVeritas, Ruth built and managed the Arkansas office of Global Strategy Group where she specialized in executing winning campaigns in the public and private sectors. Prior to joining GSG, Ruth served as counsel and chief of staff to Attorney General Mike Beebe and developed professional relationships with attorneys general across the country. Ruth has extensive legal and management experience, including over 10 years as a healthcare and administrative lawyer with the Arkansas Department of Human Services and as Counsel to Mitchell, Williams, Selig, Gates & Woodyard.

Ruth has served as a guest writer to Talk Business and currently serves on a number of boards of directors including the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce; Arkansas Cinema Society; Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance; New Design School; and Little Red River Foundation. Ruth serves on the advisory board of NanoMech Inc., a nanomanufacturing innovation and product development firm. She also serves her state and community as a member of Leadership Arkansas, Accelerate Arkansas and the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce.

Jason Barraza brings political acumen, firsthand experience with political organizations in Arizona, and a strong legal background to Veridus. Since joining the firm in 2009, in addition to lobbying, Jason assists in the development of political advocacy plans that include political campaigns, polling, and community outreach.

11-15 years

2019: On the Move: Jason Barraza promoted to Veridus director

2018: Recognized by AzBusiness Magazine (March/April 2018) as an Influential Minority Business Leader

2016: HNBA Top Lawyers Under 40 Award

As a bipartisan firm, Jason has had extensive dealings with the State's electeds on both sides of the aisle. Additionally, thanks to the diverse nature of Jason's clientele, Jason has appeared before most committees, and has worked with agency heads in the Departments of Education, Health, Agriculture, Real Estate, Administration, and AHCCCS to name a few.

Prior to joining Veridus, Jason spent multiple stints assisting the coordinated campaign of the Arizona Democratic Party during the 2002, 2006 and 2008 campaign cycles. Jason also worked security, logistics and similar roles as part of each Democratic National Convention between 2000 and 2012, and also the 2016 DNC in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated with a bachelor's from the University of Southern California (2001), and a law degree from the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona (2006).

In his service to the community, Jason was appointed by Governor Doug Ducey to the Maricopa County Trial Court Appointments Commission in 2017, and finished his service in 2020. He is also currently a member of the City of Phoenix's North Mountain Village Planning Committee, and is currently a member of the Board of Directors of Leading for Change, a non-partisan, political leadership training organization, having previously served as the Board Chairman. In 2017 Jason was the President of Los Abogados, the Arizona Hispanic Bar Association.

Jason and his wife, Leila, have two children. In his free time, he's an avid fan of the USC Trojans and also loves to read, golf, hike, and take on home improvement projects.

I have had the opportunity to serve, in various capacities, two different gubernatorial administrations as well as assisting the Attorney General's legislative efforts. These opportunities have allowed me a unique perspective to the legislative process and helped to develop key relationships across state government.

11-15 years

2019 - Arizona Capitol Times Breakdown Breakout Award Recipient
2019 - Arizona Capitol Times Best Lobbyist under 40 Nominee
2020 - Arizona Capitol Times Best Lobbyist under 40 Nominee

Shaun Rieve knows the world of lobbying and government ... from the inside out.

A veteran of both the Ducey and Brewer administrations, Shaun's is a familiar face at the State Capitol. Prior to joining Veridus in 2016, he was Director of Government and Legislative Affairs for the Arizona Commerce Authority, where he was tasked with overseeing the ACA's day-to-day legislative operations at the State Capitol and in Washington, D.C. Earlier, Shaun was a senior member of Attorney General Mark Brnovich's team, and instrumental in helping advance its legislative agenda.

Under Gov. Brewer, Shaun played a key role in developing and executing policy as her Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs. Additionally, Shaun has been a legislative liaison for both the Arizona departments of Gaming and Housing.

Shaun was raised in Lake Havasu City. He attended Arizona State University, graduating with honors in 2009 with a bachelor's in Political Science, a minor in Global Studies and certificates in Civic Education and International Relations. Shaun is fluent in French and enjoys playing soccer, softball, golf and cheering for the Diamondbacks, Cardinals and ASU football. He lives in Ahwatukee with his wife, Emily. They welcomed their first child, Rae in May of 2018.

I am an experienced lobbyist with more than 20 years of experience lobbying the Arizona state government. With particular expertise in education, business, and many of Arizona's largest industries I am ready to take on issues big and small. The Veridus team has earned a positive reputation for its success, ethics, and service to clients.

20+ years

2005: "Forty Under Forty," Phoenix Business Journal
2004: "Valley Influential" in the Young Guns category, Phoenix Business Journal

Veridus is a bipartisan firm with a deep bench of government relations and public affairs professionals with diverse backgrounds and relationships. Our team is fortunate to have strong relationships throughout the executive and legislative branches of state government and local government.

Jay Kaprosy is a seasoned lobbyist and public affairs expert with more than 20 years of lobbying experience at the Arizona State Capitol. Jay also leads the Veridus team in running statewide ballot campaigns, issue and public affairs efforts, and independent expenditure campaigns. In his work with clients, Jay has excelled at developing comprehensive strategies that advance defined objectives and protect the client's brand. He has a genuine passion for the legislative process and enduring relationships with elected officials, policy makers, and other stakeholders.

Before joining Veridus, Jay had built a strong career in government relations and public affairs. He worked for two years at Steptoe & Johnson LLP, where he joined with Wendy Briggs and Jeff Sandquist. Prior to that Jay was the Vice President of Public Affairs and chief lobbyist for the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (GPCC), Jay represented member businesses on a diverse array of business issues and managed the Chamber's extensive political and election-related activities. Stints as the legislative liaison for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Graham Keegan and the Arizona Department of Education gave Jay invaluable firsthand experience in school finance, curriculum, teacher development, charter schools, and student assessment.

Jay graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor in business and earned his Master's in Public Administration from Arizona State University.

An accomplished gearhead, Jay's current projects include a 1937 Cadillac LaSalle hot rod and a 1963 International Scout. He and his wife have two children. In his spare time, Jay spends time with his family traveling, hiking, and visiting museums.

I have a tireless work ethic, excellent track record and the ability to work with any elected official.

20+ years

Recognized as Best lobbyist by my peers and by various publications.

Board of the AZ Chamber of Commerce
Board of Teach For America

Wendy Briggs is a lobbying powerhouse with a reputation for taking on the toughest legislative issues and an unmatched record of success. She is widely recognized as one of Arizona's most accomplished lobbyists and has been named the top female lobbyist in the state. Wendy's success is based on a relentless pursuit of her client's objectives. Many of the nation's largest corporations and local associations have turned to Wendy for her ability to take command of the most complex issues, legal expertise, and attention to detail.

In addition to lobbying, Wendy has been involved in regulatory, legal, and campaign activities. She has represented clients on a variety of regulatory matters before many state agencies including the Departments of Insurance, Health Services, Liquor, and Revenue. She has taken the lead on legislative testimony regarding constitutional and legal matters and counseled issue and candidate campaigns on campaign finance laws.

Wendy is a proud Wildcat, having earned both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Arizona. After law school, Wendy spent a few years practicing law before discovering her passion for lobbying and the legislative process.

Outside of the office, Wendy is busy with community service and family activities. She serves on the Board of Teach For America and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Wendy and her husband, Mark, can often be found watching their boys Marshall and Landon playing soccer or baseball.

LESLIE ARNOLD

(Federal)
Clients:

MATT BENSON

(Arizona)
Clients:

CHARLES BLACK

(Federal)
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BOBBY CHARETTE

(Arizona)
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Clients:

JEREMY GERLACH

(Arizona)
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JENNIFER HARRIS

(Arizona)
  • 602-463-2600

Clients:

MIKE HENRY

(Federal)
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EDITH LEFEVRE

(Arizona)
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MADELINE RAMIREZ

(Arizona)
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JEFFREY SANDQUIST

(Arizona)
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RYAN SULLIVAN

(Arizona)
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