Allison Lee, Chief Executive Officer

Allison Lee, Chief Executive Officer

Allison Lee’s expertise is rooted in her 25 years of government service at the local, state and federal levels. Her external government affairs expertise is based on years of navigating several Executive Administrations of different political affiliations, changes in key legislative Leaderships as well as significant positions in journalism, major market book publishing and non-profit and trade association administration. Allison’s understanding of government functions at all levels, coupled with years of direct experience in the media, uniquely positions her to advance the complex legislative, public policy and public relations needs of her clients. She is known for her tireless advocacy, commitment to detail and professional credibility.

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Mike O’Leary, Executive Vice President

Mike O’Leary, Executive Vice President

For nearly a decade, Mike has helped ASA clients engage with State government to solve complex emerging tech issues, successfully working to architect the complex legislative and regulatory frameworks around rideshare, carshare, and micromobility, as well as ongoing legislative efforts to appropriately address gig worker classification, digital currency, fintech and data privacy. Additionally, Mike works on behalf of clients that focus on the areas of education and higher education, insurance, economic development, tourism, non-profits and cultural organizations, and sports. 

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Dan Cain, Senior Vice President

Dan Cain, Senior Vice President

Daniel brings a decade of experience in New York State politics to his role as Senior Vice President. Previously holding the title of Director of Legislative Affairs at ASA, Daniel has worked closely with every client and has gained experience on a broad range of issues.

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Jill Behrmann, Vice President

Jill Behrmann, Vice President

Jill possesses a breadth of knowledge surrounding the legislative, executive and political spheres of state-level government. Before coming to ASA, Jill was the Deputy Director of Scheduling in the NYS Executive Chamber. In this capacity, she coordinated daily and long-term logistics for the Governor surrounding his scheduling, invitations and travel.

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Justin Birzon, Vice President

Justin Birzon, Vice President

Justin offers a rich diversity of experience and keen ability to navigate the legislative process, having worked for several prominent committees in both houses of the Legislature. Justin’s broad experience includes serving as Counsel on Judiciary, Energy, Housing, Cities, and Election Law issues.

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Michela Wilson, Vice President

Michela Wilson, Vice President

Michela is an experienced public policy strategist who has become a noteworthy leader in the health care space.  

Having spent the last three years with the Senate Majority, Michela most recently assumed the role of Health Committee Director in the office of the Senate Health Committee Chair. In this capacity, she worked to develop and execute an ambitious legislative agenda, advise on policy initiatives, and liaise with stakeholders, advocates, and industry experts alike. Prior to, she was the Principal Analyst for Senate Majority in Health and Mental Health, functioning as lead negotiator during budget.

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Andrew Marocco, Vice President

Andrew Marocco, Vice President

Andrew has spent 15 years working both inside and outside New York state government, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of New York’s dynamic political landscape as well as critical institutional knowledge of the state Legislature. Having been an integral part of ASA from the firm’s launch in 2009 through 2017, Andrew brings years of experience in delivering results for ASA’s diverse portfolio of clients. 

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Kara Grippen, Vice President

Kara Grippen, Vice President

Kara brings her valuable experience at every level of New York State government and politics to ASA client needs.  For more than 10 years she has held senior positions in the New York State Executive Chamber under two consecutive Governors, including Assistant and Deputy Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs, acting as a primary liaison for State Agencies and federal, state, and local elected officials   Most recently, Kara served on the executive team at the Division of Criminal Justice Services, the state agency tasked with supporting public safety while addressing issues of disparity within the criminal justice system.

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Dan Vardaro, Chief of Staff

Dan Vardaro, Chief of Staff

Dan Vardaro brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with him to ASA. Prior to joining ASA, Dan served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff for Senator Jeff Klein, former New York State Senate Coalition Co-Leader and Leader of the Independent Democratic Conference.

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