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BOOK OF LISTS 2020 | 19 What is your formula for success that has helped you reach this milestone? What makes GBA unique and has played a large part in our company's success over the last 35 years is our team. Every member comes from a background that makes them uniquely qualified to excel in this business. Our collective experience - as knowledgeable lawyers, public-affairs experts and political and legislative strategists - is what makes us successful. In addition to our experience, our firm is made up of people who enjoy working with one another. This is evidenced by the fact that our newest employee has been with us for five years, while the remainder of our group has been at Gaffney, Bennett for decades. We work in a challenging industry and getting along as a group and "enjoying the ride" has played a big role in our success. What sets you apart from other businesses in your industry? The cornerstone of our success rests on this foundation: Experience, Integrity and Results. Like all successful professionals in our industry, we rely on our experience, knowledge of the process and strong relationships built on trust. Being able to work with people of all political persuasions is also crucial to success in this business. What is your philosophy/mission? We are mindful that our stock in trade in this business is our reputation. Our approach is to be forthright and factual. There are always two perspectives in a contested issue. We strive to address both sides of the story in a fair and balanced manner. How does your company give back or participate in the community? In addition to representing numerous nonprofits, all of us at Gaffney, Bennett have at one time or another served on non-profit boards, volunteered for charities in our communities, coached youth teams and helped raise money for various philanthropic causes. What motivates your team? Succeeding for our clients. Helping our clients navigate the complex business of government and developing successful strategies to achieve their goals is our mission. And, of course, beating the odds is always satisfying. But beyond the process - which can be both maddening and enlightening at times - it's the people we work with and for on a daily basis that serve as our compass and help us stay true to ourselves and our mission. Issues come and go, but relationships are lasting. What do you see as your industry's challenges moving forward? Because our industry is so connected to it, we are most tested by the increasingly widening political divide in the country and how that impacts public-policy decision making. You must recognize and focus on areas where you can effect change and not get caught up in sideshows. We must do everything humanly possible to build consensus and coalitions to solve problems, meet challenges and bridge divides. Frankly, while frustrating, we believe the current environment offers professionals and stakeholders in our industry an enormous opportunity to rise above the fray and recast themselves. What matters most to your clients? Timely, factual information. This is what matters most to our clients. They do not like being surprised. Gaffney, Bennett works tirelessly to obtain relevant, accurate and timely information which enables us to develop strategies and help clients make educated decisions. This, in turn, allows us to effectively advocate for each client. COMPANY BRIEF Gaffney, Bennett and Associates Address: One Liberty Sq., Ste. 201, New Britain, CT 06051 Phone: 860-229-0301 Website: www.gbact.com Employees: 8 lobbyists (4 of whom are lawyers) & 4 support staff Product or Services: Government relations, public affairs, administrative lobbying, municipal advocacy, economic development and crisis management. CELEBRATING 35 YEARS IN BUSINESS FOUNDED 1984 SPONSORED CONTENT