Dentons US is pleased to announce that Ben Jarrard, former Chief of Staff to Georgia Senate Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte, has joined the Firm's Regulatory, Public Policy and Government Affairs practice as a Senior Policy Director in Atlanta.

Jarrard brings more than a decade of experience spanning government, public policy, economic development and strategic communications. As Chief of Staff to Georgia Senate Majority Leader Jason Anavitarte, he advised Senate leadership on legislative priorities, stakeholder engagement and communications strategy while helping advance the policy agenda of the Senate Majority Caucus. He previously served as Chief of Staff to former Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch and managed the congressional campaign of former Senate Majority Leader Mike Dugan.

Prior to his service in the Georgia Senate, Jarrard was Executive Director of Government Relations and Economic Development at the University of North Georgia, where he served as the institution's chief government affairs strategist and helped secure more than $80 million in state investment for major capital projects and workforce development initiatives. Earlier in his career, he served in the administration of Governor Nathan Deal, including as Policy Advisor overseeing transportation, economic development and natural resources issues.

"Ben is widely recognized as a trusted advisor, strategic thinker and effective communicator whose experience spans every level of Georgia government and public policy," said Eric Tanenblatt, Global Chair of Dentons' Public Policy and Regulation practice. "From the Governor's Office to Senate leadership and higher education, he has built a reputation for helping shape policy, advance strategic priorities and bring together diverse stakeholders to achieve results. Ben's experience at the intersection of government, policy and economic development will further strengthen our public policy platform and help clients navigate an increasingly complex legislative and regulatory environment."

At Dentons, Jarrard will work closely with the Firm's Regulatory, Public Policy and Government Affairs team and its Georgia-based professionals, including Sam Olens, Thurbert Baker, Stephen Lawson, Megan Mercer, Falak Sabbak, and Walker Boothe. His addition enhances the team's ability to help clients engage with policymakers, monitor legislative and regulatory developments and advance strategic business objectives in Georgia and across the country.