Former Senior Vice President at Citigroup | Global Public Affairs Executive | Expert in Enterprise Risk Management & Stakeholder Engagement | Advocate for Corporate Citizenship and Social Equity
Christopher M. Brown is a seasoned leader in public policy, corporate governance, and
enterprise risk management. With over 20 years of experience, he has shaped regulatory
strategies, spurred over $2 billion in public & private investments, and driven key reforms across
finance, technology, healthcare, and transportation sectors, amongst others.
Early Foundation in Policy and Advocacy
Chris’ career began on Capitol Hill after graduating law school from DePaul College of Law in
Chicago. He first served as Labor Counsel for U.S. House Committee Chairman Rep. George
Miller of California, and later as Legislative Director for Subcommittee Chair Rep. Bobby Rush
from Chicago. He played a pivotal role in the Affordable Care Act and Wall Street Reform Act,
shaping his early experiences that taught him the importance of aligning public policy with real-
world outcomes within industry, community, and government.
“Impactful policy is rooted in understanding the needs of the community, while leveraging the
power of cross sector collaborations that align resources to the most pressing challenges,” Chris
emphasizes.
Supporting Small Business Growth
A curious traveler and global citizen, Chris left Capitol Hill for Central America after working on
the U.S. trade agreement with Panama. There, he began his consulting practice in helping
American small businesses expand into global markets in the LATAM region and beyond.
Reflecting on his initial consulting work as a precursor to his current advisory practice, Chris
reflects, “Opening doors for American small businesses internationally helps us all compete on
a larger scale.”
Advancing Social Equity
As PolicyLink’s first Director for Policy & Government Affairs in Washington, Chris led national
government affairs strategies securing over $1.2 billion in appropriations and reforms focused
on economic development, infrastructure, and small business growth. His leadership advanced
key legislation addressing economic equity in housing, and solidified the organization’s
influence in Washington, DC.
“Strategic partnerships and cross-sector collaboration amplifies our ability to affect meaningful
change at the highest levels,”
he notes, reflecting on his role in building bridges between
policymakers, industry, and community leaders as a way to advance equity at the federal level.
Navigating the Corporate Landscape
In 2019, Christopher transitioned into the corporate sector as the Senior Counsel and
Regional Head of Government Partnerships for Bird Rides, Inc., a global transportation
technology firm. His focus on government and public affairs strategy led to the
establishment of essential partnerships and favorable regulations, paving the way for the
company’s successful operations across multiple U.S. markets. There, he demonstrated his
ability to navigate the intricacies of the transportation landscape while advocating for
sustainable practices.
“Navigating regulatory landscapes requires foresight, adaptability, and a commitment to
transparency,”
reflecting on his time working with governments grappling with new and
advanced technologies.
COVID Response for the Underserved
At the onset of the COVID crisis, Chris joined PRC as its first Chief of Policy and
Communications, where he built the public policy division and led Covid response initiatives for
San Francisco’s most vulnerable populations. He secured over $35 million in budgets and policy
priorities, built partnerships across the state to address safe housing shortages, and expanded
accessible services for over 5000 underserved residents. His leadership helped elevate PRC’s
statewide and national profile.
“In times of crisis, effective policy is about swift action and ensuring that the most vulnerable
communities have a voice at the table,”
Chris reflects on his leadership at PRC during critical Covid response efforts across California.
Leading at Citigroup
In 2021, Christopher joined Citigroup as Senior Vice President of Global Public Affairs,
where he oversaw stakeholder management and enterprise risk for the U.S. market. A
public affairs officer for one of the largest financial firms in the world involved advising
executive leadership on emerging global risk issues, crisis management, and regulatory
engagement, while ensuring that business strategies aligned with ESG targets and regulatory
requirements. There, he also played a key role on advisory and strategic review committees to
assess business risk, leverage opportunities for community impact, and to approve investments
in innovation and social enterprises.
“Effective corporate citizenship provides an opportunity to lead and inspire trust within our global
communities to produce triple bottom line results,”
Chris asserts, underscoring his belief in the power of cross-sector partnership and investments.
A Visionary Leader in Executive Leadership
Today, as Founder and Managing Partner of The Nova Rose Group, Chris continues to advise
governments, investors, corporations, and community institutions on public affairs, strategic
partnerships, and enterprise risk management with a lens towards driving sustainable and
inclusive growth. His volunteer work with nonprofit boards and advisory councils at the
University of California, and his alma mater University of Georgia School of Public &
International Affairs, speaks to his ongoing commitment to fostering economic and social
impact.
“Enabling systemic change that empowers the best ideas to address our most critical
challenges presents opportunity for business, governments and communities alike,”
he says, highlighting his passion for building consensus, inclusive growth, and positive change.
Christopher’s achievements have been recognized by regulators, policymakers, and
community leaders, further solidifying his reputation as a leader dedicated to creating
lasting impact. His extensive network and experience have positioned him as a trusted
advisor within the realms of public affairs, community, and corporate governance.
Conclusion
Christopher M. Brown’s journey through public service and corporate leadership exemplifies
a commitment to bridging the gaps between business, government, and community. His
strategic influence and dedication to fostering equitable outcomes continue to drive change
in the industries he serves. With an eye toward the future, Christopher remains focused on
empowering leaders and creating sustainable solutions that benefit both businesses and
society.
The Nectar of Wisdom from Christopher M. Brown’s Journey
● “Impactful policy is rooted in understanding the needs of the community, while
leveraging the power of cross sector collaborations that align resources to the most
pressing challenges.”
● “Opening doors for American small businesses internationally helps us all compete
on a larger scale.”
● “Strategic partnerships and cross-sector collaboration amplifies our ability to affect
meaningful change at the highest levels.”
● “Navigating regulatory landscapes requires foresight, adaptability, and a
commitment to transparency.”
● “In times of crisis, effective policy is about swift action and ensuring that the most
vulnerable communities have a voice at the table,”
● “Effective corporate citizenship provides an opportunity to lead and inspire trust
within our global communities to produce triple bottom line results.”
● “Enabling systemic change that empowers the best ideas to address our most critical
challenges presents opportunities for business, governments and communities alike.”
Editorial Note
Christopher M. Brown’s remarkable journey exemplifies the profound impact one individual
can have at the intersection of business and public policy. His unwavering commitment to
equitable practices and sustainable solutions continues to shape the future of corporate
governance. As he forges new paths in public affairs, Christopher remains a pivotal figure in
driving positive change for communities and industries alike.
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