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Bullpen Strategy Group Grows Team With New Hires and Promotions

August 1, 2024 | Press Release

Bullpen Strategy Group (BSG) today announced six new hires and six promotions across its Communications, Research & Analysis, and Media Intelligence practices in both the Washington, DC, and London offices. BSG has experienced strong growth over the past year, and now has more than 60 team members across three offices in Washington, DC, Dallas, and London.

“We’re excited to make these talented additions to our roster at BSG – their deep experience both in government and the political arena will add value for our clients across the globe,” said BSG CEO Joe Pounder. “Further, we’re proud to see a number of our team members earn promotions for continuing to grow professionally over the past year. As we approach BSG’s five-year anniversary in September, we continue to strengthen and expand our practice areas to drive results for our clients.”

Joining the BSG team are:

Carolyn Needham – Senior Vice President, Research & Analysis: Carolyn brings more than a decade of experience in research, communications, and crisis management to BSG. Most recently, Carolyn served as Research Director for Nikki Haley’s 2024 presidential campaign, where she led research and rapid response operations. She was also integral to crafting communications strategies, debate preparation, and paid media. Prior to the campaign, Carolyn served in a range of roles with Stand for America (Haley’s Leadership PAC), the National Republican Senatorial Committee, America Rising, and Freedom Partners. Carolyn received her B.A. in History and Religious Studies from the University of Virginia.

Ben Vihstadt – Vice President, Communications: Prior to joining BSG, Ben served as Senior Communications Advisor for New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu for the past two years. From Governor Sununu’s first gubernatorial campaign in 2016 through his fourth and final term in office, Ben served as a key advisor and communications leader, both in the governor’s office and on his four statewide campaigns over that time period. Ben has led communications, digital, and rapid response efforts, and has extensive experience working with PACs, nonprofit political initiatives, and in government service. Ben graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in Government.

Madeleine Lefranc – Associate, Communications: Madeleine brings expertise in media monitoring, democracy initiatives, and public affairs. Prior to BSG, Madeleine worked at CLYDE as a Public Affairs Fellow. She graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in Political Science and minors in French and Global Security Studies.

Sydney Maingot – Associate, Communications: Sydney brings to BSG experience in political campaigns, digital fundraising, and crisis communications. Prior to BSG, Sydney worked on the client strategy team at Targeted Victory, a Washington, DC-based public affairs and digital firm. She graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Political Science and International Affairs.

Cameron Helms – Associate, Media Intelligence: Cameron brings to BSG expertise in cybersecurity, intelligence, and strategy. She previously worked as an open-source intelligence analyst. A graduate of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Cameron is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in cybersecurity from Johns Hopkins University.

Henrietta Hill – Associate, Media Intelligence: Henrietta joins BSG’s London office in the Media Intelligence team, keeping clients up to date with key, relevant news and developments to guide strategy. She is a B.A. History graduate from the University of Birmingham.

In addition, BSG announced six promotions: Jared Beard, Alex Koch, and Ryan McDowell to Senior Director, Giancarlo Payamps to Director, and Jack Lubbock and Kuljeet Singh to Senior Associate.

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