Chlopak, Leonard, Schechter & Associates

Chlopak, Leonard, Schechter & Associates, which rebranded to CLS Strategies in 2014, is a lobbying, public relations, and strategic communications firm based in Washington, DC. The organization generates revenue by providing complex public affairs consulting, crisis management, and international advocacy services to corporate enterprises and foreign governments. Its historical client roster features major multinational corporations across various sectors, including recognizable companies like Oracle, Verizon, and DJI Technology. The firm has managed several high-profile crisis communications and regulatory advocacy campaigns, notably working on the $765 million NFL concussion settlement in 2013. While its exact annual revenue and employee count remain undisclosed, the agency expanded its global footprint when it was acquired by corporate communications firm Gavin Anderson. The firm was originally founded in 1993 by political strategists Robert Chlopak, Charlie Leonard, and Peter Schechter.

Chlopak, Leonard, Schechter & Associates (now known as CLS Strategies) is a Washington, DC-based lobbying and public relations firm specializing in strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management, and digital advocacy. The firm serves a diverse client base including Fortune 500 companies, foreign governments, and political entities, helping them navigate complex regulatory, legislative, and reputational challenges. Their work focuses on delivering high-impact solutions in government relations, legal affairs, and public opinion campaigns, positioning them as a key player in the intersection of politics, law, and corporate strategy[1][4][8].

Founded in 1993 by Robert Chlopak, Charles Leonard, and Peter Schechter—each bringing significant political and governmental experience—the firm evolved from its roots in political campaign strategy and public relations to a broader strategic communications consultancy. The founders had backgrounds in political campaign leadership and congressional committee staff roles, which shaped the firm's expertise in navigating Washington's political landscape. In 2014, the firm rebranded as CLS Strategies to reflect its expanded capabilities beyond traditional communications, emphasizing innovative problem-solving for high-stakes issues[1][3][4].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Not applicable as the firm is a strategic communications consultancy, not an investment firm.
• Network Strength: Deep connections in political, corporate, and international spheres, leveraging founders’ backgrounds and longstanding client relationships.
• Track Record: Proven success in high-profile cases such as the $765 million NFL concussion settlement, integration of drones into U.S. airspace, and advising foreign governments during critical elections.
• Operating Support: Combines veteran political operatives, former journalists, and corporate communications experts to deliver comprehensive public affairs and crisis management services.
• Strategic Problem-Solving: Known for recommending “unexpected solutions” to complex, high-stakes challenges faced by clients[4][5][7][8].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

While primarily a public affairs and lobbying firm, CLS Strategies intersects with technology trends through its work on regulatory and legislative issues affecting tech sectors, such as drone integration into U.S. airspace. The firm operates at the nexus of government policy and emerging technologies, helping clients navigate evolving regulatory environments. Their timing is critical as governments worldwide increase scrutiny on tech companies, data privacy, and innovation governance. CLS’s influence extends to shaping policy debates and public opinion, which can significantly impact technology adoption and market dynamics[4][8].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, CLS Strategies is poised to deepen its role as a strategic advisor in an increasingly complex regulatory and political environment, especially as technology and global geopolitics evolve. Trends such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, and international political shifts will likely shape their client engagements. Their ability to provide integrated public affairs, crisis management, and digital advocacy solutions positions them to remain influential in helping clients manage risk and seize opportunities where government and technology intersect. The firm’s evolution from a traditional lobbying shop to a multifaceted strategic consultancy underscores its adaptability and forward-looking approach[4][8].