Michael Best Strategies (Strategies), the Washington based consulting practice with a legacy of success for their clients, today announced their newest practice focusing on Defense & National Security. The practice will be led by Erik Berdy whose career has spanned decades of service in the Army, at the Pentagon, and on Capitol Hill.

Berdy most recently served as the Special Assistant for Legislative Affairs to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during both the Trump and Biden Administrations. He was the principal advisor to the Chairman and Joint Staff for all Congressional matters, significantly improving Congress-Joint Staff relations while connecting disparate staffs and departments to enable stronger collaboration for better outcomes.

The team is rounded out with Lucia Alonzo. Alonzo, an experienced government relations professional with more than 10 years of experience effectively advocating for her clients on Capitol Hill, also serves as President and spokesperson of the non-partisan, non-profit Hispanic Lobbyists Association and previously served as Chief of Staff of a well-known bipartisan lobbying and public affairs firm. 

“America’s national interests and security are being challenged like never before, requiring ingenuity, advanced capabilities and a comprehensive approach to maintain the competitive edge and ultimately our way of life.  Strategies is a sought after partner in Washington to do just that,” said Erik Berdy in the announcement.“This team brings a strategic perspective, decades of experience, and a knowledge of how to get the job done for our clients. We are excited to partner with those who have the vision and commitment to be a part of meeting these challenges to our Nation.

“Strategies’ Defense & National Security Practice is committed to helping our national defense infrastructure innovate and grow to meet the Nation’s current and future challenges and threats. We advise on business strategies including government relations, public relations, and government procurement, uniquely enabled by critical legal support from our affiliated law firm, Michael Best®. Together, we bring a comprehensive approach to problem-solving,” said Strategies President Rob Marchant. “Erik and his team bring an unparalleled knowledge base from decades spent in this industry. Their work will deliver wins for our clients and for the country.”

For additional information on the Defense & National Security practice or Erik Berdy, click here.

Michael Best Strategies (Strategies) helps companies accelerate their success through a combination of strategic business consulting, lobbying, government relations, public affairs, and communications. The firm has thrived by providing a diverse team of professionals with the experience, skills, and relationships necessary to help each client achieve their goals more quickly and fully.
Bio Link In Erik’s three-decade career in the U.S. Army, the Pentagon, and on Capitol Hill, he served as a trusted advisor, strategist, connector, and leader. He brings a wealth of experience and insight to his role as a Partner with Michael Best Strategies. Expertise: Defense & National Security, Government Relations, Strategic Political Relationships, Communications & Engagement, Legislative Process
Bio Link Rob served as a senior leader within the Wisconsin Senate under five majority leaders, three Republicans and two Democrats. As chief clerk and director of operations of the Wisconsin Senate, Rob was the parliamentarian of the Senate and was responsible for the proper, constitutional functioning of the Senate as a lawmaking and oversight body within state government. Expertise: How Legislatures Do Their Work, Legislative Procedure & Drafting, Executive Branch Operations, Economic Development Policy, Agri-business & Environmental Policy, and Water Policy