Julie Fess

Overview

With more than two decades of experience participating in Florida's political, regulatory and legislative process, Julie Fess supports Gunster clients’ public policy and advocacy initiatives.

A sole practitioner who owned and operated Fess Consulting for many years, Julie is skilled in helping to devise messaging and lobbying strategies that focus on meaningful outcomes by striving to collaboratively work with legislative leadership on substantive issues and the appropriations process. She is dedicated to working year round in order to connect with clients, legislative staff and legislators, recognizing that meaningful advocacy doesn’t just occur during the 60-day legislative session. Throughout the course of her career, Julie has cultivated relationships with House members, Senators and committee staff by offering a personalized and familial approach to service.

Julie began her career in Central Florida while working in the Florida House of Representatives. Following, as a senior legislative assistant for Senate Budget Chairman and later Majority Leader Locke Burt of Volusia County, she was involved in shepherding numerous high profile policies and funding initiatives to the Governor's desk.

Julie also served as the Chief Legislative Assistant for the Speaker of the Florida House and as a key policy advisor and liaison with government and community groups. Her involvement in both the House and Senate support her in understanding the inner-workings of the Capitol.