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In this episode of Early Returns, host Jan Baran speaks with Nneka Chiazor, President and CEO of the Public Affairs Council, about the critical role public affairs professionals play in navigating the intersection of business, community, and society. As Washington enters a midterm election year with all House seats and a third of the Senate on the ballot, they discuss how the business community is preparing for the political landscape ahead. Chiazor explains how the Public Affairs Council, a 70-year-old organization with over 700 members and offices in Washington and Brussels, helps advance the field through research, training, and convening opportunities that address everything from lobbying and grassroots advocacy to corporate PACs and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
The conversation expands upon key trends affecting public affairs professionals, including how businesses are adapting their advocacy strategies in an era of hyperpolarization, how a high percentage of corporate leadership is spending more and encouraging employees to donate to PACs, the growing importance of corporate purpose, and the impact of new technologies on stakeholder engagement. Additionally, they touch upon international developments driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics and tariff policies, while also examining state-level campaign finance that could have broader implications. Chiazor emphasizes how public affairs professionals serve as strategic advisors who help organizations navigate volatility and complexity while building trust and maintaining their license to operate in an increasingly scrutinized business environment.
About Nneka Chiazor
Nneka Chiazor became the first woman and person of color to lead the Public Affairs Council in its 70-year history in January 2025. As President and CEO of the premier global association for public affairs professionals, she is redefining the organization's future by expanding its international reach, elevating the profession's strategic value, and building the next generation of public affairs leaders worldwide. A transformational executive with more than two decades of experience at the intersection of business, government, and community, including 14 years at Verizon Communications, Nneka brings a rare combination of corporate leadership, policy expertise, and strategic vision to the association.
Prior to joining the Public Affairs Council, Nneka served as Market Vice President for Cox Communications in Hampton Roads, where she led a $1.2 billion market, overseeing more than 1,200 employees and driving growth through bold public-private partnerships. In a significant milestone for digital equity, she brokered a multimillion-dollar agreement to extend broadband infrastructure to underserved communities across Virginia, demonstrating her ability to align corporate strategy with meaningful community impact.
A committed civic leader, Nneka has served on boards including the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, the Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance, and Global Traveler magazine. She also served as an appointed Commissioner for the City of Virginia Beach Economic Development Authority.
Nneka holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Concordia University in Montreal and a Master of Science in Telecommunications Management from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She is an alumna of Harvard Business School.
