OUR TEAMShari McHugh has over 25 years successful experience in government affairs and public relations. She is currently a partner in the lobbying firm of McHugh Koepke Padron Government Relations. Shari’s lead clients include the American Beverage Association, Association of California Life and Health Insurance Companies, Californians Allied for Patient Protection, California Credit Union League, the Hartford, the National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors of California, the Pacific Association of Domestic Insurance Companies, the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, and Warner Music Group.
Prior to joining McHugh Koepke Padron Government Relations, Shari was the Senior Vice President for the Coalition of California Insurance Professionals (CCIP). Shari was responsible for overseeing and implementing the lobbying and regulatory agenda developed by CCIP’s Steering Committee. She served as staff liaison to the various task forces and steering committees of coalition partners.
Prior to joining CCIP, Shari was the Senior Vice President of PIA. As staff liaison to PIA’s Public Affairs Committee, she managed the formulation and implementation of PIA’s legislative program and worked with officials from the DOI on regulatory issues. She was also responsible for PIA’s grassroots network and media program.
Shari has worked diligently over the years to develop and maintain working relationships with legislators, legislative staff, regulatory officials, administration representatives, lobbyists, media personnel and industry representatives. Her work in helping to establish and grow PIA’s government and public affairs department earned Shari a Presidential Citation award in 1996 in recognition of meritorious efforts and achievements.
Prior to working with PIA, Shari served as a legislative aide for Melendez Associates, a Sacramento-based lobbying firm, where she worked on issues for major California employers such as ARCO, E & J Gallo Winery and the Port of Long Beach.
Shari graduated from California State University Sacramento with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Communication and Government.
