Paul Thomas

Paul Thomas is Partner in the Parkside Group’s government relations team, where he develops and executes multifaceted government relations efforts for the firm’s clients.

At the Parkside Group, he manages their budgetary advocacy practice and directly represents a variety of companies, trade associations, and non-profit organizations.  Paul has helped non-profit organizations secure millions in vital funding, companies navigate the M/WBE certification process, and trade association shape legislation impacting their members’ businesses.  He leverages the high-level relationships that he has developed over two decades working in politics and government in New York to advance the interests of many of the firm’s clients beyond those he directly represents. Beyond his work on the government relations team, he advises public affairs clients on how best to engage the community stakeholders who can support their agendas.

Prior to joining the firm, Paul served as a senior aide to several high-ranking elected officials, including as Chief of Staff to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, as Assistant Director of Intergovernmental and Community Affairs for the NYS Attorney General and as Special Assistant State Senator Kevin Parker. He is also a veteran of multiple political campaigns and served on the staff of the New York City Council, where he played a key role in the municipal budget process, helped lead staff efforts to create the city’s Anti-Gang Violence Youth Initiative, and worked to expand the city’s Family Justice Center to help victims of domestic violence. 

Paul serves as a board member at the League of Conservation Voters and has been regularly featured on the Power of Diversity: Black Power 100 list and Bronx Power 100 list published by City and State.