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Phil Donovan

Phil founded NW Public Affairs in 1999 and has grown it into one of the top government affairs firms in the state. In Oregon politics, Phil is known for motivating and inspiring those who work with him, bringing together diverse coalitions, his deep understanding of complex legislative and political issues, and his composure under pressure.

As the lead lobbyist and strategist at NW Public Affairs, Phil assists clients with strategic planning and leads major legislative efforts ranging from energy and tax policies to land use and capital construction. Phil has represented a number of high profile interests in the State Legislature that have led to K-12 and higher education reform, water resource development, and improvements in the delivery of health care. He has also managed winning campaigns at the local, state and federal levels.

A fifth-generation Oregonian, Phil grew up on an orchard and Christmas tree farm near Corvallis where he harvested and sorted apples, fed chickens, and removed mistletoe from oak trees for holiday sales. Now, fishing, golf and Duck football are his passions outside of work. Phil has guided fly fishing adventures in Alaska and river rafting trips on the Deschutes, McKenzie, and North Santiam rivers in Oregon. He relishes any chance he gets to play Bandon Dunes, Tetherow or any of Oregon's most challenging golf courses.

Phil received a B.A. in Political Science with honors from the University of Oregon and was awarded the Koyl Cup, Student of the Year.