(Jackson, Miss.) – Cornerstone Government Affairs today announced the addition of Kelly Wright, former Director of Government Affairs at the Mississippi Manufacturers Association (MMA), to its government relations team as a Vice President. With more than a decade of experience in government relations, Wright possesses a deep understanding and ability to navigate both state and federal legislative landscapes for clients.
“We are thrilled to have Kelly join our team in Jackson,” firm President Campbell Kaufman said. “Her experience and relationships throughout Mississippi will help us continue to provide exceptional service to our clients in Jackson.”
In her most recent role as the Director of Government Affairs at MMA, Wright actively engaged with state legislators to advocate for key issues relevant to the MMA and build the organization’s visibility. Her responsibilities included monitoring committee meetings and floor actions, preparing detailed position papers on legislation and establishing crucial relationships to ensure Mississippi congressional delegation and staff were apprised of the needs of manufacturers across the state.
Additionally, Wright maintained membership activities at MMA, where she oversaw policy and government affairs committees. She served as a liaison between member companies and various state agencies, ensuring open lines of communication and facilitating collaboration. Wright also managed the MMA PAC and helped recommend candidates to contribute to and support.
Prior to her role at MMA, Wright served as a Staff Legislative Assistant at a lobbying firm in D.C. where she serviced more than 30 clients across various industries including higher education, defense and local government. Wright started her career as an Executive Assistant for the Mississippi State Legislative Budget Office.
“Cornerstone has an incredible reputation, both nationally and here in Mississippi, so I am honored to be joining this team,” Wright said. “I am excited to use my experience and skill set to support the great work this firm does for its clients.”
Wright joins a well-established Mississippi team that includes Camille Scales Young, Elliott Flaggs, Drew Maddox, Manning McPhillips, Beckie Feldman and Neal Lancaster.
Wright received a Bachelor of Arts in History and Psychology from the University of Mississippi.