Seasoned Political Strategist Nanette Farag Promoted to Vice President of Political Affairs at Randle Communications

Randle Communications (Randle), Sacramento’s top-ranked public relations and public affairs firm, announced today that Nanette Farag has been promoted to Vice President of Political Affairs. Farag, one of the state’s leading strategists, has turbocharged Randle’s political practice and strengthened its premier public affairs team as a key member of the firm’s leadership team.

Farag joined Randle in 2019, bringing veteran leadership and extensive campaign, research, coalition development, voter targeting and digital and paid media experience. She is both thoughtful and tenacious, blending battle-tested practices with today’s most innovative tools and techniques to win political campaigns and public affairs fights. Farag’s forward-thinking approach has produced extraordinary results overcoming the challenges associated with COVID-19 and helping shape the future of political strategy and strategic communications in a virtual world.

“Nanette is a smart, tough and relentless team player who wins by executing successful campaigns rooted in innovative approaches and strategies,” Randle President and CEO Jeff Randle said. “COVID-19 has changed the face of advocacy, and Nanette is ahead of the curve. She is shaping the future of communications to help win statewide and local elections across the state and help legislative advocates win policy debates at the Capitol. Nanette makes her teammates better and reinforces our standing as one the best and most respected public relations, public affairs and political consulting firms in the country.”

Since joining Team Randle, Farag has delivered big wins for firm clients. She led the campaign to defeat a local recall effort in northern California, while in southern California, she helped qualify a local ballot measure to save health care in a rural community while under shelter-in-place orders. Farag also works closely with a major health system to execute cutting-edge community engagement initiatives that strengthen relationships with local governments and nonprofit organizations. She also leads Randle’s coalition efforts to defeat a 2022 statewide ballot initiative and to protect MICRA to ensure Californians continue to have access to health care.

“I am thrilled to work with the best in the business at Randle Communications to develop winning campaigns for our clients,” Farag said. “Effective campaigns are built on informed, forward-looking strategies, disciplined execution and powerful messaging that meets voters where they are. With an eye toward 2021 and beyond, I am excited to expand our political practice with passion and expertise while delivering success.”

During the last two decades, Farag has held leadership positions in strategic operations, political campaigns and external relations for political candidates and elected officials on a statewide and regional level. She has secured victory in some of the state’s most targeted races, overcoming overwhelming electoral disadvantages through a combination of data analytics, strategic coalition development, diverse messaging strategies and real-time performance-driven analysis. Those campaigns resulted in improved public image, name ID and issue association at the district, state and national level.

Farag holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from California State University, Sacramento. She lives in West Sacramento with her husband, Ryan Endean, her stepdaughter Ashley and their rescue dog, Holly. Nanette is a committed community volunteer. She and her husband devote substantial time working with local nonprofits and animal rescues, fostering abused dogs and placing them in forever homes.

Randle Communications Powers Up Utility Practice; Mike Gazda Promoted to Vice President, Utility Practice

SACRAMENTO – Randle Communications (Randle), one of Sacramento’s top-ranked strategic communications firms, announced today that Mike Gazda has earned a promotion to Vice President, Utility Practice. Since joining the firm in 2013, he has helped lead Randle’s growth into a premier communications advisor to state-regulated utilities in California and throughout the Western United States. During this time, he has led a team that supports water, wastewater and electric utility clients, providing strategic guidance and full-service communications support. In his new role as Vice President, he will be responsible for the health and growth of Randle’s utility practice and continue to play a key role as part of the firm’s Leadership Team.

“Mike Gazda has become one of California’s top utility experts, understanding how to communicate complex water and electric utility information to customers, regulators and the media,” Jeff Randle, Randle Communications President and CEO said. “He is meticulous and strategic, blending traditional public outreach with cutting-edge digital media to help major utilities reach customers. Mike is the leader we need to grow the utility communications practice, ensuring our clients stay at the forefront of the industry.”

Gazda leads several of the firm’s high-profile clients, including Golden State Water Company, Liberty Utilities and Bear Valley Electric Service. He specializes in customer, stakeholder and internal communications, using video and digital tools alongside earned media and executive positioning to tell meaningful stories that inform about clean water, reliable power and well-maintained infrastructure. He has also led the firm’s work to create a Public Safety Power Shutoff communications framework to protect communities should wildfire or disaster strike.

“I’m honored by this recognition and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead working with our team to continue delivering extraordinary results for our amazing clients,” Gazda said. “The culture at Randle Communications is unrivaled, and it’s a privilege to work with this team of innovators and professionals.”

Prior to joining Randle, Gazda spent nearly two decades in professional baseball building and executing media relations and crisis communications programs for regional, national and global audiences. During nine seasons in Major League Baseball, he worked with several of the world’s most recognized professional athletes to successfully navigate a diverse array of challenging issues. Gazda helped open Nationals Park and served as media relations director for the Washington Nationals from 2008-13, after three seasons as media relations manager for the Miami Marlins.

Gazda has Sacramento roots in professional baseball as well. He led the Sacramento River Cats’ communications program during the team’s first five seasons (2000-2004) and played a key role in the grand opening of what is now Sutter Health Park. Gazda remains active in the baseball community, serving as a coach and board member with Elk Grove Youth Baseball. A native of Pittsburgh, Gazda earned a journalism degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

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Randle Communications Doubles Down On Digital; Promotes Daniel Wetter To Lead Firm-Wide Digital Strategy

SACRAMENTO – Randle Communications (Randle) announced Daniel Wetter has been promoted to Manager, Digital Public Affairs. This move underscores the importance of digital in advocacy and further elevates Randle’s position as the leader in digital public affairs. Since Wetter joined the firm in 2018, he has played a critical role in building and leading the firm’s focus on digital public affairs.

“Daniel Wetter’s digital-first mindset has allowed us to continue to innovate and offer our clients cutting-edge digital content that breaks through the clutter and delivers results,” Randle President and CEO Jeff Randle said. “A lot of firms say they do digital, but with Daniel leading our strategy, Randle does it right. He has earned this promotion because of his innovative approach and his commitment to the firm and his teammates, which result in delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients.”

In his new role, Wetter will oversee digital strategy and execution across the firm, leading Randle’s digital practice. He will continue to support public affairs clients by leveraging the power of digital to advocate on the most critical issues facing Californians. Adding to his portfolio, Wetter will oversee digital strategy to elevate the voices of storied brands and industry leaders within the firm’s public relations and utility practices.

“In the new COVID-19 world, digital can no longer take a backseat. I am thrilled to be part of a team that embraced the power of digital early on and continues to set the standard for successful digital campaigns,” Wetter said. “Our team takes an innovative all-of-the-above approach to create cutting-edge, authentic content that drives engagement and shapes the debate in Sacramento. I am excited to build on this work in my new role.”

Wetter supports digital strategy and public affairs for several of Randle’s statewide trade association clients at the forefront of California’s most pressing public policy issues, including the California Association of REALTORS®, California Manufacturers and Technology Association, California Hospital Association and the statewide Behavioral Health Action coalition. He works hand-in-hand with the firm’s leaders and powerhouse creative services team to execute the Randle Content Studio, the firm’s proprietary approach to strategic content development deployed through digital channels. Wetter also leads strategy and execution of Randle’s annual Digital Influencer Report, now in its third year.

Prior to joining Randle, Wetter served in numerous roles providing communications support for members of the U.S. House of Representatives, political consulting firms, newsrooms and campaigns. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in political communication from George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

Jackson Gaskins Joins Growing Utility Practice at Randle Communications

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Randle Communications (Randle) today announced the hire of Jackson Gaskins as an account executive to support the company’s growing utility practice. The addition of Gaskins to the team reflects the firm’s continued commitment to recruiting talented professionals who combine passion for the craft with ingenuity and innovation to help clients succeed.

“We are thrilled to have Jackson on board. His knowledge of the energy sector and experience in the high-stakes environment of professional sports offers tremendous value to our clients,” Randle President and CEO Jeff Randle said. “Jackson’s media relations and crisis experience combined with his passion for public relations make him a great addition to our team.”

Gaskins will provide public relations support with a focus on customer education and digital strategy for Randle’s utility clients, including Golden State Water Company, Bear Valley Electric Service and Liberty Utilities.

Prior to joining the Randle team, Gaskins served as a facility solutions specialist for SitelogIQ, where he partnered with school districts throughout Northern California to bring comfort and efficiency to the classroom through energy-related solutions. He also gained valuable experience working in professional sports in various public relations capacities. Most recently, he led the communications department for the Reno Aces, the Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. He also worked in communications for the San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins, Salt Lake Bees and Utah Jazz.

“It is a tremendous honor to join Randle Communications and work with California’s best public relations team,” Gaskins said. “I look forward to the opportunity to grow professionally and personally while providing communications support for the firm’s water, electric and wastewater utility partners.”

Gaskins earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from California State University, San Marcos, in 2014, and a Master of Organizational Leadership with a concentration in crisis management from Colorado Christian University in 2016.

Randle Communications Promotes Erin Dunlay to Vice President of Public Relations

SACRAMENTO – Randle Communications (Randle), Sacramento’s top-ranked public relations and public affairs firm, announced today that Erin Dunlay has been promoted to Vice President of Public Relations. Since 2015, she has played a central role across Randle’s public relations, public affairs and ballot initiative practices and internal operations. Dunlay has led project teams for clients in health care on both the payer and provider sides, banking and finance, environmental protection, public pension management, crisis communications and ballot measure campaigns. As Vice President, she oversees Randle’s public relations practice and a is key member of the firm’s leadership team.

“Erin Dunlay is an accomplished communications strategist and team leader who personifies the firm’s ‘we, not me’ culture,” Jeff Randle, President and CEO of Randle Communications said. “We have aggressive goals to expand our public relations practice by delivering for current clients and winning opportunities for new business and we know Erin is the right person to help us get there. She has proven herself throughout the last five years and earned the promotion to Vice President of Public Relations. Looking forward, we know that Erin will provide outstanding leadership, support her teammates and help our clients succeed.”

During the last five years, Dunlay has led high-profile projects for clients including Golden 1 Credit Union, the Mattress Recycling Council, Dignity Health, Antelope Valley Hospital and California Family Fitness. Dunlay also led the firm’s work to promote the opening of Golden 1 Credit Union Center for the credit union and supported Sacramento Republic FC’s efforts to bring Major League Soccer to Sacramento. She understands the importance of storytelling and weaves it skillfully into digital communications, media relations, thought leadership, executive positioning, issue management, community relations and event planning.

“There’s no question Randle Communications has the most talented team in the business,” Dunlay said. “I’m so fortunate to work with my colleagues to produce the highest quality work on the most important issues of the day. It has been so rewarding to grow my career as part of an extraordinary team, and I’m extremely excited to lead our public relations practice into the future.”

Prior to joining the Randle team, Dunlay worked at global, statewide and local public relations firms, where she managed and worked on diverse national, statewide and local communications programs. She also has newsroom experience, having worked as a copy editor for the Omaha World-Herald.

Dunlay received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Creighton University. She is a member of the Leadership Sacramento class of 2020. Previously, she served on the board of the Sacramento Public Relations Association for six years, including a term as president, and spent six years on the River City Food Bank Board of Directors. When she’s not working, she can be found watching basketball or football or curling up with a good book. She and her husband, Ryan, have two children, Madeline and Max.

Joe Schutz Promotion Elevates Randle Communications’ Creative Services Practice

SACRAMENTO – Sacramento’s top-ranked public relations and public affairs firm, Randle Communications (Randle), today announced the promotion of Joseph (Joe) Schutz from multimedia account coordinator to the newly created position of multimedia producer. Schutz joined the firm in 2019 focusing on video production and he will play a leading role in the continued expansion of Randle’s in-house creative services practice, which has achieved unrivaled results, meeting demand for real-time, visually dynamic and captivating content.

“Joe Schutz is immensely talented, and his creative vision and bold approach to producing video content have created new opportunities for our clients,” Randle President and CEO Jeff Randle said. “Video is a game-changing tool that helps impact target audiences, and Joe has earned this promotion by thinking strategically, working hard and helping our clients achieve their goals.”

As multimedia producer, Schutz will work across accounts to create compelling video content with a dynamic approach to help clients connect with industry stakeholders and consumers. Schutz’s promotion reflects Randle’s industry leadership and ability to deliver multi-faceted and fully-integrated public affairs, public relations and ballot initiative campaign communications programs. Clients get the best value, efficiency and results.

“Multimedia production is my passion, and I love every detail in the process, from initial creative brainstorming to production and final edits,” Schutz said. “In this digital age, video storytelling is one of the most powerful tools, and I am grateful to be able to grow professionally and take on a larger role with the Randle Communications team.”

Schutz is a graduate of Jesuit High School and Cal Polytechnic State University. He is an avid Sacramento Kings fan, enjoys playing basketball and beach volleyball, adventuring with his dog, Gunther, and hanging out with family and friends.

Michael Lienhard Joins Growing Public Affairs and Ballot Initiatives Practices at Randle Communications

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Randle Communications (Randle) today announced the hire of Michael Lienhard as an assistant account executive to support the company’s growing public affairs and state and local ballot initiatives practices. Lienhard’s addition to the team reflects the firm’s commitment to recruiting talented professionals who bring passion and ingenuity to each project.

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the team. His strong advocacy and stakeholder mapping experience and knowledge of the evolving political landscape offers tremendous value to our clients,” Randle President and CEO Jeff Randle said. “Michael brings public affairs savvy, enthusiasm and an all-in mentality. He will be a great addition to our already strong team.”

Prior to joining the Randle team, Lienhard gained valuable experience working as a regional representative for former United States Senator Dean Heller. He worked hand-in-hand with local and county governments, influential stakeholders and elected officials to build coalitions that worked together to find creative solutions to legislative issues that affected thousands of constituents. Lienhard also helped lead the advocacy for and implementation of Senator Heller’s legislative priorities throughout northern and rural Nevada.

Lienhard will provide public affairs support to a wide range of Randle clients with a focus on coalition building, including the California Hospital Association, Californians Allied for Patient Protection and the statewide initiative campaign to protect MICRA.

“I am thrilled to be joining the best public affairs team in California, and to have the opportunity to work on important ballot measures that impact the lives of millions in the Golden State,” Lienhard said. “I look forward to working with the incredible team of people at Randle Communications, and support such an impressive group of clients.”

Lienhard is a two-time graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a Minor in Business Administration and a Master of Public Administration and Policy.

 

Breaking Through the Clutter – How to Make Your Pitch Stand Out

Those working in the media receive hundreds of emails a day from people who want their story told. How do you make sure your pitch stands out from all the others? Follow these simple tips to help break through the clutter and secure coverage.

Develop a relationship

Producers, reporters and writers are required by their supervisors to have multiple story ideas each day. To quickly sift through their trove of emails, they tend to look for names they recognize; they simply cannot read every email that comes to their inbox. You increase your chances of getting a response if you can develop a professional relationship with someone.

Another way to build a relationship is to connect with the reporter. Follow journalists on Twitter. They’ll appreciate that and you can learn more about their work and interests. This can also be an effective way to make a connection with your pitch. They might follow you back and over time as you interact with them, you can even direct message them to let them know you have an interesting story to share.

Create an eye-catching subject line

A good subject line is essential, but don’t get too catchy or cute.  It needs to be succinct, direct and to the point. Sometimes putting the word “local” is attention-getting and will garner results.

If you didn’t get results and would like to recirculate a press release or a pitch, it is helpful to put “follow-up” at the front of the same subject line. That will often trigger a response.

Make it local

A local story has a better chance of getting coverage. Reporters ask themselves ‘Why does my viewer/reader/listener care? ‘What can I offer my audience that they cannot get on a national level?’

Keep in mind:

Short and sweet

It’s important to make your pitch relevant, timely and have a personal impact to their audience.

If you are sending a pitch in an email, do not send any attachments. Embed the press release in your email and offer to send photos if the reporter/editor would like to have them.

If you are delivering a pitch on the phone, make it succinct and easy to understand. Practice your pitch. You typically have a good 20 seconds to make your case to a journalist and then hopefully they’ll ask you a question because you’ve piqued their initial interest.

Conduct follow up

A follow-up call is key to securing coverage. It helps make sure the person on the receiving end sees your email and it isn’t lost in cyberspace. It also gives time for them to ask questions and learn more about what you are pitching.

If it is an event, a call helps confirm it is on their planning calendar. If it is a bigger story, having a phone conversation helps them understand the topic/issue and vet the story. What are the visuals? Who is the spokesperson?

Using all of these tips collectively is a sure way to get noticed and receive coverage. Happy pitching!

Randle Communications Adds Powerhouse Public Affairs Leader

SACRAMENTO – Randle Communications, Sacramento’s top public relations and public affairs firm, today strengthened what is already one of California’s best communications firms by announcing that Nanette Farag has joined the firm as a director. A dynamic and skilled tactician with executive experience in state government, the legislature and campaigns, Farag will lead high-profile public affairs projects as well as the firm’s state and local ballot measure practice. She will focus on executing strategic media relations, coalition building, grassroots outreach, voter targeting and digital and paid advertising programs.

“Nanette Farag is a public affairs powerhouse, known for campaigns that are innovative, targeted and most importantly, successful,” said President and CEO Jeff Randle. “She excels because she understands the intersection between government and politics and uses the latest tools and technology to frame issues and shape attitudes. Nanette represents the future of California public affairs and ballot measure campaigns: a one-of-a-kind leader who wins elections under the most difficult circumstances. Her vision and experience make our great team even better.”

Farag has more than 15 years of experience leading strategic operations, political campaigns and external relations for high-profile candidates and elected officials. She served as chief of staff during Assemblywoman Catharine Baker’s tenure as the only Republican state elected official in the Bay Area. By combining data analytics, strategic coalition development, multi-faceted messaging strategies and performance-driven analysis in both the state and elections operation, the Baker campaign became the model for running and winning the most hard-fought races in the state.

Most recently, she worked as the director of member support and communications for the Assembly Republican Caucus, expanding the operational model she developed with Assemblywoman Baker to additional legislative offices. In her time at the Caucus, Farag developed effective, district-specific public affairs and outreach campaigns for legislators and issues, more than doubling both the volume and effectiveness of previous messaging campaigns. The results have improved public image, name ID and issue association at the district, state and national level.

Farag started her career in the State Senate and later worked in the administration of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as a member of the governor’s executive staff. She then served as deputy director of external affairs at the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

“I am thrilled to join Randle Communications and work with California’s best public relations and public affairs team,” said Farag. “The key to successful campaigns is blending the right people with the best strategy, and that’s our approach. I look forward to expanding Randle’s public affairs and ballot initiatives practices, innovating and helping our clients win.”

Farag earned a Bachelor of Arts in Government from California State University, Sacramento, and lives in West Sacramento with her husband, Ryan Endean, her stepdaughter, Ashley, and their rescue dog, Holly. A passionate community volunteer, Nanette and her husband spend much of their time working with Sacramento Pit Crew Rescue, an organization that fosters abused dogs, helps them recover and find forever homes.

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