William Clark Joins APCO as Senior Director in Washington, Further Boosting the Firm’s Public Affairs, Advisory Expertise

Washington, D.C. – February, 03, 2025: Today, APCO Founder and Executive Chairman Margery Kraus announced that William Clark will be joining the firm as a senior director with the public affairs team, based in Washington, D.C.

Bringing over 30 years of experience in elections, advocacy, grassroots organization, congressional relations and government service, Clark will help drive cross-functional, integrated advisory services for APCO clients. Prior to joining APCO, Clark was a key part of AARP’s advocacy efforts for over 12 years as campaign director, where he most recently worked on the organization’s family caregiving and prescription drug campaigns.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Bill to the APCO family,” Kraus said. “His vast experience and deep understanding of public affairs will be a tremendous addition to our team. Bill’s strategic insights and leadership will undoubtedly enhance our ability to deliver exceptional results for our clients. We look forward to his innovative leadership.”

“I am excited to be joining APCO’s team in leading public affairs solutions for our clients,” Clark said. “Coming off their 40-year anniversary APCO is uniquely situated to put the client at the center of what is political change and opportunity. I have been aware of APCO for many years and APCO’s key differentiator has always been the exceptional people who work here. I’m thrilled to be part of that team moving forward and excited to see what the future brings.”

Before his tenure at AARP, Clark held several prominent roles in both the private and public sectors. He served as principal at Podesta/Mattoon and Weber Merritt, where he honed his skills in strategic communications and public affairs. Additionally, he served as vice president at DCI, where he led numerous high-impact campaigns.

Clark’s extensive experience also includes significant positions within the federal government. He previously worked at the White House Presidential Personnel Office and at the Department of Homeland Security as a director of legislative affairs. Earlier in his career, Clark contributed to various campaign efforts within the Republican National Committee and the National Republican Congressional Committee, where he developed a deep understanding of grassroots organization and electoral strategy.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bill to our team,” said Safiya Ghori-Ahmad, head of global public affairs at APCO. “His extensive experience in public affairs, combined with his strategic vision and leadership, will be invaluable as we continue to deliver exceptional results for our clients. Bill has a proven track record of driving successful advocacy and grassroots campaigns, and his expertise will significantly enhance our integrated campaign practices. We are confident that his innovative approaches and deep understanding of congressional relations and government service will bring tremendous value to our clients and our team. We look forward to the positive impact he will make at APCO.”

Bill joins APCO following the passing of his beloved wife, Alicia Peterson Clark, who served as deputy managing director for APCO’s Washington. D.C, office before passing away in 2017. Kraus shared a heartfelt statement on Alicia’s passing, which can be read here.