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Summit-based MAD Global Strategy announced Monday that New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Assistant Commissioner and Chief of Staff Justin Braz will join the firm as managing director, heading up the public affairs firm’s Trenton lobbying operation.

Braz has served a wide range of experience over the course of his career. Prior to his role at NJDOT, he was Gov. Phil Murphy’s deputy chief of staff for legislative affairs as well as a campaign advisor, legislative staffer and more. Braz is a national board member and founding member of the New Jersey Chapter of the New Leaders Council and serves as the governor’s representative on the Rowan College at Burlington County’s board of trustees and as a member of the Bordentown City Planning and Zoning Board.

“For over six years, Justin Braz has served as a close advisor who has helped me skillfully navigate some of our toughest challenges,” said Murphy in a press release. “From serving on my 2017 campaign to his role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative Affairs in the Governor’s Office to his position as Assistant Commissioner and Chief of Staff at the Department of Transportation, Justin has built a reputation across New Jersey as a dedicated and honest broker trusted by legislators, labor, and business leaders alike. Although we’ll miss him in the Murphy Administration, I’ll continue to rely on his wise counsel and wish nothing but the best in his next chapter.”

The announcement marks the latest in a series of high-profile moves made by the firm, which was founded by Mike DuHaime. According to him, adding Braz to the ranks reflects MAD Global‘s goal of building a premier team of trusted advisors and the next generation of top tier talent in public affairs.

“Justin is exactly the kind of dynamic young leader we need to elevate our organization,” said DuHaime.

That sentiment was echoed by MAD Global partner Laura Matos, who said she was thrilled to welcome Braz to the team.

“Justin is a well-respected professional, with a deep understanding of public policy and how state government impacts families and businesses,” said Matos. “He is a significant addition to our team as we continue to grow our portfolio and build a world-class team of strategists.”

In a press release, Braz said he is humbled by MAD Global’s faith in him and says he is excited to join the team.

“Over a decade ago, I entered the public sector believing in government’s ability to faithfully serve the best interests of the people. That conviction endures thanks to the many exceptional individuals with whom I have had the honor of working, including, of course, Gov. Murphy and Commissioner [Diane] Gutierrez-Scaccetti,” said Braz. “I look forward to putting my background and experience to work alongside the team at MAD Global Strategy and continuing to help solve complex problems here in New Jersey and beyond.”