Brad Tietz

In a field often marked by high stakes and complex dynamics, Brad has developed a reputation as an effective, pragmatic and thoughtful advocate for his clients and a navigator of the political, policy and legislative landscapes with growth and economic opportunity as his north star.

Lobbying & Public Policy

Brad has introduced and shepherded into law many economic and workforce development initiatives, led efforts and coalitions to reform many existing laws and regulations, and successfully stopped or negotiated countless anti-growth proposals at the state, city and county levels, while elevating the profile of clients with elected officials and stakeholders across the political spectrum.

Issues on which Brad has focused include workforce and economic development; tax, revenue and budgetary issues; growth sectors such as the data center, quantum and film industries; employment, tech and health care regulations; energy and environmental policies; capital and operational grant funding; traditional and digital infrastructure; local zoning and permitting processes; and equity and inclusion programs.

Prior Experience

Before joining Faegre Drinker, Brad served the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce as vice president of government relations and strategy, working to ensure the adoption of pro-growth and pro-business public policies at the levels of the State of Illinois, City of Chicago and Cook County on behalf of the Chamber’s 1,000+ members ranging from Fortune 100 companies to startups. In addition to advocating and lobbying for the Chamber and its members, Brad also developed the Chamber’s legislative agenda, managed the Chamber’s political action and public policy committees, represented the Chamber at events and forums, and organized events throughout the year with Chamber members as well as elected and government officials.

Previously, Brad served as the legislative director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, managing legislative operations and communications for the state’s economic development agency. Prior to his time at the Department, Brad served as a senior legislative analyst for the Illinois House Labor & Commerce Committee and the Revenue & Finance Committee.

Throughout his career, Brad has lobbied, negotiated and engaged with the Illinois General Assembly and local governments, and built coalitions across the political and governmental spectrums with legislators, the executive branch, legislative caucus staff, local officials, industry stakeholders and associations.

Personal Interests

In his free time, Brad enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, sports and staying active, and playing guitar. He currently lives on the northwest side of Chicago with his wife, son and daughter.