Eileen Stuart, David Childs, and Andrew Liebert join Ballard Partners as Partners in the Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. Offices
Washington, D.C. and Tallahassee, FL – Ballard Partners, a leading international lobbying firm, is proud to announce that Eileen Stuart, David Childs, and Andrew Liebert have joined the firm as Partners. Together, they bring decades of experience in legislative strategy, public policy, and regulatory affairs at the state and federal levels.
“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.”
Eileen Stuart joins Ballard Partners following a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors. Most recently, she served as Managing Principal of a boutique lobbying firm, where she led comprehensive government and public affairs strategies for clients across industries including agriculture, healthcare, higher education and technology. Previously, she was Vice President for Government and Regulatory Affairs at Mosaic, one of the world’s largest fertilizer manufacturers, and served as Deputy Policy Director in the Executive Office of the Governor of Florida, managing policy and appropriations initiatives across state agencies. Stuart has become a go-to resource for some of the nation’s largest companies in navigating complex regulatory environments and successfully procuring millions in state and federal funding. Stuart earned her Juris Doctor from Florida State University College of Law and her B.A. in History from the University of Florida.
“Ballard Partners has long set the standard for strategic advocacy and results-driven representation,” said Eileen Stuart. “I am honored to join such a talented and respected team and look forward to helping clients navigate complex policy challenges across every level of government.”
David Childs, a lawyer, lobbyist, and engineer, brings more than 20 years of experience helping clients navigate Florida’s legislative, regulatory and appropriations processes. He has played a pivotal role in drafting and passing major state legislation on water resource management, environmental policy, and energy infrastructure, including Florida’s landmark springs restoration and essential state infrastructure laws. Recognized among the Best Lawyers in America for Environmental Law and named Florida Politics’ Environmental Lobbyist of the Year in 2019, Childs has advised community developers, utilities, and major landowners on issues critical to Florida’s natural resources and economic growth.
“I’ve worked for two decades to help clients achieve meaningful results through thoughtful engagement with policymakers,” said David Childs. “Joining Ballard Partners provides an unparalleled opportunity to continue that work alongside some of the best professionals in the business.”
Andrew Liebert joins the firm after over a decade of service in Florida’s state government. He most recently served as Chief Legislative Aide and Senior Advisor to Senate President Ben Albritton, where he advanced major legislative initiatives and secured millions in state appropriations. His previous experience includes serving 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 of Representatives. A Naples native, Liebert holds degrees from the University of Central Florida and Florida State University.
“Ballard Partners’ success is built on relationships, expertise, and a commitment to excellence,” said Andrew Liebert. “I’m excited to bring my legislative and appropriations experience to the firm’s dynamic team and continue serving clients across Florida and beyond.”
With their extensive experience in government relations, policy development, and strategic communications, Stuart, Childs, and Liebert will play a vital role in advancing Ballard Partners’ mission to provide premier advocacy and advisory services to clients across industries and jurisdictions.
