Tom Sheehy Government Relations Strategist | Public Policy Expert | Legislative Affairs Leader
Tom Sheehy is one of California’s most respected government affairs professionals, bringing more than three decades of experience in public policy, legislative strategy, government relations, procurement, budgeting, and executive leadership. Throughout his career, he has worked at the highest levels of California state government, helping organizations navigate complex regulatory environments, secure strategic partnerships, and achieve successful outcomes.
As the founder and principal of Sheehy Strategy Group, Tom advises corporations, technology companies, trade associations, and emerging businesses on legislative advocacy, government procurement, regulatory affairs, and strategic growth initiatives. His expertise has helped clients secure hundreds of millions of dollars in business opportunities through effective engagement with state agencies, policymakers, and government decision-makers.
Prior to launching Sheehy Strategy Group, Tom served as Senior Director of Government Affairs at Greenberg Traurig LLP, where he guided clients through California’s legislative, regulatory, and appropriations processes while developing successful advocacy and coalition-building strategies.
Tom’s distinguished public service career includes appointments within the administration of the Governor of California, serving as Acting Secretary and Undersecretary of the California State and Consumer Services Agency. In this role, he oversaw 15 state departments, 16,000 employees, licensing for more than 2.3 million professionals, and approximately $9 billion in annual state procurement activities.
Previously, as Chief Deputy Director and Deputy Director of the California Department of Finance, Tom played a central role in state budgeting, fiscal policy, legislative analysis, and public finance. He represented the Governor on numerous boards and commissions, served as a Trustee of the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS), and chaired the State Allocation Board responsible for public school construction funding.
Tom also held senior government relations positions with TIAA-CREF, representing the organization before legislatures, regulatory agencies, and trade organizations across six western states while leading successful policy initiatives that supported business growth and operational objectives.
He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Davis, and a Bachelor of Science with Honors from the University of California, Davis.
Today, Tom is recognized for his ability to bridge the gap between public policy, government decision-making, and private sector innovation. His unique combination of executive leadership, fiscal expertise, political insight, and strategic advocacy makes him a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to grow, influence policy, and successfully navigate complex governmental environments.