John Dickert, VP / Director of State & Local Advocacy, brings clients over 35 years of policy experience working with local, county and state governments. With a keen awareness of issues, combined with political skills, he has provided meaningful strategic advice to companies and campaigns at all levels. John’s passion for the environment coupled with his understanding of business give him a unique perspective of how appropriate government programs and support can benefit communities and clients’ specific interests.

John is a recognized leader in the water and climate sectors and is well known for his ability to deliver results across the political spectrum. He has a passion for leading-edge water policy on a local – and global – level and clients will find John a true champion of innovative and sound water and climate policy.

Most recently, John led the State and Local Finance Division of the Department of Revenue. Appointed by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, the governor also tapped John to serve on the Wisconsin PFAS Action Council (WISPAC), tasked with developing statewide initiatives to address growing public health and environmental concerns regarding certain PFAS substances.  Prior, John served as President/CEO of the Great Lakes St Lawrence Cities Initiative, an international group of Mayors dedicated to the Protection of the Great Lakes and St Lawrence Seaway.

John led Racine, Wisconsin as its mayor for three terms. During his tenure he was committed to revitalizing Racine – with a successful track record of supporting new businesses and expanding existing companies. Additionally, as a member of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Water Council and as Vice-Chair of the Metro Economies Committee, he gained an expertise in navigating government programs to positively impact a community’s water supply and access. He was also elected by his peers to serve as the first President of the Urban Alliance of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities.

John’s private sector experience includes the First Weber Group realtors for eight years, and four years with the law firm of Foley and Lardner, where he worked with clients like the Green Bay Packers and FPL Energy.  Also, John lobbied for the Wisconsin Credit Union League and served two Wisconsin Congressmen – Les Aspin (1986 intern) and Peter Barca (1993-94) as District Director.

John graduated from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse with degrees in Political Science and Communications and was elected as the youngest County Board Supervisor in the city’s history in 1984-86.  John has presented to organizations internationally from the OECD (Paris) to colleges and universities.