Hogan Lovells names Ivan Zapien the Practice Area Leader of the firm's Government Relations and Public Affairs practice

"Clients work with Hogan Lovells because we understand that nothing happens in a vacuum – the intersection of politics, policy, and business must always be considered for us to provide the best counsel," said Zapien. "I am excited for the opportunity to lead this strong and growing group of policy advocates as we focus on advising clients across industries entering into one of the most uncertain and critical periods in recent political history."

Zapien joined Hogan Lovells as a partner in 2017 from Walmart where he led Corporate Affairs for Mexico and Central America while based in Mexico City, and prior to that was Walmart's Chief Lobbyist in Washington, D.C. His tenure on the Hill included serving as Chief of Staff to Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) and as Director of Outreach for the House Democratic caucus. Through his experience, he has built deep networks in Congress and on K Street.

Zapien currently serves as the vice chair of the U.S.-Mexico Foundation, a binational nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cooperation and understanding between the U.S. and Mexico, which piggybacks off his previous role as executive director of the Hispanic Leadership Council of the Democratic National Committee.

He publishes a weekly newsletter on the most noteworthy events that happened in Washington and also hosts a podcast that focuses on the issues, people, and culture that shape federal politics and policy. Zapien has been recognized as one of the "Most Influential Hispanics" by Hispanic Business, as one of the top lobbyists by Latino Magazine, as one of The Hill's Top Lobbyists, and received the President's Award from the Hispanic Lobbyist Association.

"We first brought Ivan to the firm with the idea that his combination of public policy and communications experience could help foster growth. That experiment has been a resounding success," said Alice Valder Curran, leader of the firm's Global Regulatory practice group. "We are grateful for the path forged by Norm and Bob in the last few years, where they have skillfully integrated our deep political and policy capabilities into our already strong regulatory practice, and I look forward to watching Ivan take us to the next level."

Coleman and Kyle took over the practice in 2017, and one of their first moves was to hire Zapien. Under their leadership, the Government Relations and Public Affairs group has grown considerably. The group has advised some of the largest and most influential companies and associations in the world.