Phil Ammann
For its newly launched Broward County office, lobbying firm Ballard Partners said Thursday it has hired government relations and fundraising expert Stephanie Grutman.
Grutman brings more than 17 years of experience, which included being one of Politics Magazine’s most influential Democrats in Florida for 2009. She also spent four years as finance director of Senate Victory for the Florida Democratic Party, working under Democratic Leaders such as Sens. Nan Rich, Chris Smith, and Arthenia Joyner.
Ballard Partners president Brian Ballard praised Grutman’s deep connections in South Florida and extensive knowledge of the political landscape, adding that her hire will “ensure success” in the Broward market.
“As the second-most populated county in Florida, Broward County is a natural place for Ballard Partners to open a new office, and Stephanie is the perfect person to help get our local practice off the ground,” he said.
Under Grutman’s leadership, Senate Democrats enjoyed their most successful fundraising cycle ever in 2012, raising more than $6.4 million and winning three of four targeted races. Those victories increased the caucus for the first time since 1987.
“Having spent my entire career in Florida politics,” Grutman said. “I look forward to working with Brian and the entire team as we build a thriving practice in Broward County.”
Prior to joining the FDP, Grutman was deputy chief of staff for then-Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink and as a senior adviser to the Communications, Legislative Affairs and Cabinet Affairs departments. She also played roles in the campaigns of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, U.S. Reps. Ron Klein and Tim Mahoney, State Sens. Maria Sachs and Darren Soto, and many other candidates at the local, state and federal levels.
Grutman, based in Weston, received her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Florida State University. She is married with two children.
