Brian Matakis

Vice President
SCC | Grossman Public Relations

Thus far in his career, Brian has provided legislative testimony, commissioned a painting, counseled executives, camped in an ice cave, and bunked with a New York Times reporter and titans of green business in the Costa Rican rainforest. He joined SCC | Grossman Public Relations in June 2006, and brings serious expertise in communications, issues management and social responsibility.

Prior to joining SCC | Grossman, Brian served as the chief of staff for Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton, where he helped drive policy development, civic outreach and strategic communications. He also collaborated with the Office of Governor Jim Doyle and cabinet agencies on key initiatives ranging from environmental stewardship and economic development to emergency management and higher education.

Before his venture into Wisconsin politics, Brian spent nearly five years at Manning Selvage & Lee/Chicago, where he directed a diverse set of corporate and technology clients and helped run the U.S. Army recruiting assignment and other integrated engagements with Leo Burnett, Starcom, Arc and Relay.. He also produced numerous video projects, including a documentary in conjunction with HBO’s “Band of Brothers.”

Prior to joining MS&L, Brian worked for Voices for Illinois Children, a statewide public policy and education group. He was responsible for developing and promoting legislative initiatives through coalition building, media relations and government affairs. While at Voices, Brian helped enact tax credits for families and expand children’s health insurance coverage.

Brian earned bachelor’s degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in public affairs from the University of Minnesota’s Hubert Humphrey Institute.