Hollis Public Affairs Expands Service Platform with Launch of Strategic Communications Practice

NEW YORK, NY — Hollis Public Affairs (HPA) today announced the launch of its Strategic Communications Practice, expanding the firm’s integrated service platform to meet growing demand for sophisticated branding, crisis management, and reputation strategy alongside its public affairs representation. The firm also announced that Zach Haberman has joined HPA as Vice President of Strategic Communications to lead the new practice.

HPA’s Strategic Communications Practice will help clients craft clear and consistent narratives that resonate with policymakers, stakeholders, and the public—while ensuring community voices are reflected in policy and decision-making conversations. The firm’s approach combines authentic outreach, real-world policy communications expertise, and data-informed tools to help clients extend their reach with credibility, purpose, and measurable impact.

In his new role, Haberman will lead the expanding practice and serve as a senior strategic advisor to clients navigating high-stakes public affairs challenges. He will provide executive expertise on integrated communications strategy, brand positioning, issue advocacy, reputation management, crisis preparedness, and stakeholder engagement. Haberman will work closely with HPA’s legislative affairs, policy, community engagement, and advocacy teams to translate evolving political and regulatory developments into clear, persuasive narratives that advance client objectives.

“The launch of our Strategic Communications Practice marks an important evolution for Hollis Public Affairs as we continue to broaden the scope of services we provide to our clients,” said Brian W. Simon, Founder and Managing Partner at Hollis Public Affairs. “Today’s environment demands more than traditional public affairs representation. Companies and nonprofit organizations alike must proactively shape their brands, manage complex stakeholder dynamics, and be prepared to navigate crisis moments with clarity and credibility. By integrating strategic communications more deeply into our platform—and by bringing on tested practitioners like Zach—we are strengthening our ability to meet the ever-evolving needs of our clients. Zach is a brilliant addition to our team, and his newsroom leadership and crisis expertise will be invaluable as we help clients protect and advance their reputations.”

“Our clients are operating in an environment where policy, public perception, and digital amplification move simultaneously and at extraordinary speed,” said Julissa Ferreras-Copeland, Senior Partner at Hollis Public Affairs. “Whether serving a corporation, a healthcare system, or a nonprofit organization, effective branding and crisis communications are no longer optional; they are central to mission execution and long-term sustainability. Zach’s background in high-stakes media environments and complex reputational matters immediately enhances our ability to deliver strategic, disciplined communications support to the organizations we serve.”

Haberman joins Hollis Public Affairs from a leading communications organization, where he served as Account Director, Legal Affairs & Crisis, overseeing rapid response and long-term communications strategies for foundations, nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, higher education institutions, boards and C-suites, law firms, technology companies, and high-profile individuals. His work included advising clients through complex reputational challenges, proactive storytelling initiatives, internal communications strategy, media training, and scenario planning.

Earlier in his career, Haberman held senior newsroom leadership roles at NBC News, the New York Post, the New York Daily News, Patch.com, and ABC News. At NBC News Digital, he served as lead breaking news editor and later worked as an editor on its Politics unit, helping steer coverage during major national political moments and breaking news events. As Managing Editor of News at the New York Post, he led a team of approximately 50 reporters and editors and helped drive significant year-over-year audience growth.

“Being able to work with people, institutions, and organizations on issues that help and support everyday life is a privilege,” said Haberman. “I’m honored to join HPA as the firm launches its new Strategic Communications Practice, and I’m excited to work alongside the team to help clients sharpen their narratives, respond to rapidly changing conditions, and build durable trust with the audiences that matter most.”

Haberman holds a Bachelor of Science in Media Studies with a minor in History from Hunter College.

About Hollis Public Affairs

Hollis Public Affairs is a full-service public affairs and government relations firm providing strategic counsel, legislative advocacy, community engagement, and communications support to corporations, nonprofit organizations, and institutions. The firm partners with clients to navigate complex political environments, shape policy outcomes, and build durable relationships with stakeholders.

Contact: 646-774-2918, press@hollispublicaffairs.com