New Jersey-headquartered public affairs firm MAD Global announced Jan. 15 the acquisition of ConVista Public Affairs, an Ohio-based multi-client consulting firm.

NJBIZ profiled the firm in September, founded three years ago by longtime political operative and public affairs expert Mike DuHaime. In that short span, MAD Global has grown to full-time operations in three states (New Jersey, New York and Ohio) as well as a presence in Pennsylvania and Washington.

“This is an exciting time at MAD Global Strategy as we continue to grow and expand our footprint throughout the Midwest and Northeast,” said DuHaime, founder and CEO.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

As part of the deal, ConVista founder Connie Luck will join MAD Global as managing director. She will lead strategic communication efforts for the firm, as well as supporting clients’ government affairs and lobbying needs. She brings nearly two decades of experience. Luck’s background includes strategic communications, media relations, government relations and lobbying, and crisis response and management to the firm. Her experience also includes serving as a press secretary to former Ohio Gov. John Kasich.

“Connie is a great addition to our growing team,” said DuHaime. “She brings a wealth of experience in state government, politics, and strategic communications – and she will be a tremendous asset to our clients.”

“I’m thrilled to join the talented team at MAD Global and look forward to supporting the company’s continued success in Ohio and beyond,” said Luck. “After launching my own consulting firm just three years ago, it is an honor to be invited to work alongside some of the best public affairs and political strategists in the country.”

Veep-elect ties

Jai Chabria leads the MAD Global Ohio operation. Recently named partner at the firm, Chabria serves as a key advisor and strategist for Vice President-elect JD Vance.

“Jai Chabria is one of the top political operatives and policy minds in the country,” said DuHaime in a Jan. 7 press release announcing his promotion to partner. “He is a proven leader who has won some of the most challenging political races in the country – and he brings that expertise to the clients we serve.”

“With Mike DuHaime’s visionary leadership, this firm is at the forefront of an exciting journey, poised for extraordinary growth,” said Chabria. “We are in the early stages of something truly big, and I couldn’t be more excited to help shape this future, expand our reach, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.”

This Ohio expansion marks the latest chapter of that “exciting journey.”

Chabria applauded the acquisition and addition of Luck to the firm.

“We are excited to welcome Connie to the MAD Global family,” said Chabria. “Having worked with Connie for years, I have seen firsthand that she is a proven leader with a first-class reputation. Her strong communications and government affairs credentials will further strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional results for our clients.”

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