Biography
Ted began his career in policymaking as a research/communications aide to Congressman Ray Thornton. Ted’s work focused on technology and agribusiness, addressing topics including the safety of food additives, management of national forests, bioengineering, and the efficacy of USDA stakeholder outreach. Ted worked with the EPA, FDA, NSF, USDA and USFS, as well as constituents, stakeholder groups and the news media.
Ted subsequently built a 15-year career in corporate public relations and external affairs, working for LTV Missiles & Electronics Group, multiple business units of International Paper, and Potlatch Corporation. He has extensive experience in public affairs communications related to chemicals and manufacturing, forestry and sustainable resource management.
In 2001 Ted opened a public affairs firm to support clients on economic development, energy regulation, tort reform and health care. In 2003 Fleishman-Hillard tapped him to launch its Arkansas presence and provide public affairs counsel to SBC, now AT&T. In 2007, Ted transitioned from Fleishman to VOX Global, where he provided strategic leadership for AT&T public affairs in 12 states.
Clients have relied on Ted to create and drive communication strategies addressing many critical policy issues, in nearly three dozen states and the nation’s capital. Ted’s clients range from family-owned startups to leading global corporations. His work includes strategic risk communications and stakeholder outreach to address issues tied to:
- Environmental protection
- Natural resource management and sustainability
- Technology and communications policy
- Chemical and heavy manufacturing operations
- Health and safety
- Emergencies and crises
- Referenda on taxes/regulations
- Major organizational change
- Biofuel and traditional energy, and
- Agribusiness.
Ted holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Arkansas State University. His education and work as an editor/publisher enable him to create insightful media relations strategies for VOX clients.
For fun Ted looks outdoors – from wilderness hikes and hillside rambles, to learning which plants will thrive around a city cottage shaded by 11 old oaks. He enjoys reading, home improvement projects, making conversation with friends and making mischief with the two little boys in his life.