DALLAS (Aug. 2, 2018) – Sunwest Communications has welcomed Pete Havel as senior counsel to lead the firm’s public affairs practice.

A seasoned government affairs executive, Havel has worked for three of America’s leading pro-business trade associations, served as a chamber of commerce president, lobbyist for a government agency and senior executive for a leading strategic communications firm. Based in Texas for the last 20 years, Pete has designed and implemented legislative strategies to protect the business community in some of the state’s most significant legislative battles.

“Pete has a deep understanding of how the legislative process can impact business and how businesses can impact the legislative process,” said Crayton Webb, owner and CEO, Sunwest Communications. “He built, and continues to maintain, strong ties to congressional leaders, top trade associations, and political consultants on both sides of the aisle. It’s his experience, relationships and expertise that will make him a valuable asset to Sunwest and our clients.”

Havel served as executive director for congressional and public affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for the Southwest and South-Central U.S. He also served in similar roles with the construction industry, including the Associated Builders and Contractors as regional political manager, as well as the regional political director for the National Federation of Independent Business, which represents small business owners.

After leaving the U.S. Chamber, Havel continued to build his role as a trusted voice for businesses with leading communications firm Burson Marsteller as public affairs director and senior vice president of government affairs, along with marketing for The Wolf Group, a Dallas-based strategic communications firm. Havel also served as director of state and federal legislative affairs for the North Texas Tollway Authority, where he successfully pushed a proactive legislative agenda in the 83rd and 84th Texas legislative sessions and protected the agency’s interests.

Sunwest clients vary from international oil and gas corporations to real estate, finance, direct selling, technology, education, family foundations and various consumer products. The firm’s strategic services include brand and marketing communications, community relations, corporate communications, corporate philanthropy/CSR, creative services, crisis communications, employee communications, financial communications, media relations, public affairs, social media strategy, special event planning and spokesperson training.

Media contact:

Abby Waldron; awaldron@sunwestpr.com; 469-547-0211

About Sunwest Communications:

Founded in Dallas in 1982, Sunwest Communications helps companies and brands build trust, increase visibility and reach business goals through strategic marketing and public relations initiatives. One of Texas’ leading public relations and public affairs firms, Sunwest develops tailored, strategic solutions that drive audience behavior for clients spanning industries and geography. For more information, visit sunwestpr.com.