Mindset enhances its bipartisan expertise with the addition of House Energy and Commerce Legislative Director and Financial Services Regulator.

Mindset, a Washington, DC-based bipartisan strategic advisory and advocacy firm, announces today the addition of two Directors to its growing team. Zach Ostro, currently Legislative Director for Congresswoman Robin L. Kelly (D- IL), will join the firm later this month, and Shawnda Martin, formerly Senior Analyst in the Office of Government Affairs at Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), joined last month. Zach and Shawnda both bring expertise in issues of primary concern in the evolving policy landscape.

Zach has substantial legislative and policy experience in the US House of Representatives in several issue areas, including technology, budget, tax, and energy. In addition to handling Rep. Kelly’s service on the Energy & Commerce Subcommittees, Energy and Consumer Protection & Commerce Subcommittees, Shawnda helps manage the Congresswoman’s Tech Accountability Caucus. Through the Caucus he has analyzed issues at the intersection of tech and banking policy such as an application of consumer-facing blockchain technologies, use of artificial intelligence in lending, and data privacy and security.

Shawnda brings significant federal and state legislative experience on a variety of complex issues, including financial services regulation. She also worked in the 2016 election as the Deputy Director of Voter Protection in North Carolina for Hillary for America. Shawnda is also a member of the Board of Directors of Women in Housing and Finance.

Zach and Shawnda are strong complements to our team as we navigate the current situation and build for the future. Zach’s extensive legislative experience, strong relationships, and depth of knowledge will be of great service to our clients, as will Shawnda’s nuanced understanding of Congress and the regulatory agencies. We are proud to have such forward-thinking and solutions-oriented individuals join our team.

Langston Emerson, Founding Partner

“I was immediately drawn to Mindset’s unique value proposition of combining best-in-class strategic advisory and lobbying services,” Zach said. “As the firm continues to expand its bi-partisan, bi-cameral reach, I am excited to join this well-established team in delivering for clients.”

“I am thrilled to join such a renowned team with a proven track record of success across a number of sectors,” Shawnda said. “Mindset is at the forefront of providing the kind of sophisticated and effective advocacy that is so needed today, and I’m honored to be part of the team.”

Mindset is also pleased to announce it has promoted Kelsey Wiseman to Director. Ms. Wiseman will continue to advise clients on regulatory and legislative issues related to banking and insurance.