Michael LaRosa Joins Ballard Partners as a Partner in the Washington Office

Ballard Partners, one of the top government relations firms in the United States, is opening a new office in Sarasota and firm partner Todd Josko will serve as Managing Partner of the newly opened office. 

“As Florida’s growth continues to boom, Southwest Florida is a burgeoning market for Florida business and also plays a critical role in Florida governance and elections,” said Brian Ballard, the firm’s President and Founder. “We are delighted to be expanding the firm’s significant footprint in Florida under Todd’s leadership, given his long-standing personal ties and unique knowledge of Sarasota and Manatee Counties.” 

Josko has over 25 years of experience in state and municipal government relations, public affairs, strategic communications and political strategies, and has been a partner in the firm’s Tampa office since 2016. Previously, as founder and president of a Tampa-based public affairs firm that he led for 15 years, Josko helped Fortune 500 companies and trade associations successfully resolve governmental and regulatory challenges, particularly on issues affecting growth, transportation, economic development and water quality. Earlier in Josko’s career, he served as a legislative aide to a member of the Florida House of Representatives from Manatee County.

“I am excited to plant the Ballard Partners flag in my hometown of Sarasota,” said Josko. “With our firm’s local, state, federal and international reach, our capabilities are unrivaled in Southwest Florida.”

Josko formerly held a senior level position with an international strategic communications firm and has advised many national, state and local Republican candidates. Josko holds a Master of Science degree in Political Science from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the University of Florida.

The firm’s thriving Tampa office will continue to be led by Ana Cruz.