Kaufman Zita Group (KZG) is pleased to announce that Christopher Hughes has joined the KZG team as a new Vice President. Hughes is a seasoned government affairs professional and will utilize his extensive background and knowledge in government and public affairs. He will provide advocacy, strategic planning, and direct lobbying services to the firm’s clients.

Prior to joining KZG, Hughes worked in various roles in the public and private sector for over a decade. Most recently, he was Assistant Vice President of Government Relations for Virtua Health, South Jersey’s largest health care system. He also served as a legislative caucus Budget Director for the NJ Assembly Republican Office, overseeing all fiscal and budgetary policies and communications. Hughes served as Chief of Staff to the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance which regulates the state’s banking, insurance, and real estate industries. In this role he worked with the Governor’s Office to implement various components of the federal Affordable Care Act as well as other significant insurance reforms and initiatives.

Hughes received a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science from Rutgers College, Rutgers University, where he was also an Undergraduate Associate at the Eagleton Institute of Politics. He later earned his juris doctorate from Rutgers School of Law – Camden. Christopher is admitted to practice law in the state of New Jersey and the federal District of New Jersey.

In welcoming him to the firm, KZG Principal Trish Zita said, “Christopher is widely recognized throughout the State of New Jersey and across the political spectrum as a trustworthy and knowledgeable professional. We believe his experience in managing and directing complex issues, as well as his extensive knowledge of the inner-workings of state government will be an invaluable resource to our clients. We’re excited to have Christopher join us and bring his talent and expertise to our team!”

More information on Christopher’s background, experience, and new role at Kaufman Zita Group can be found here.