Ryan Thompson

Ryan Thompson is a Senior Advisor at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, based in Austin, Texas and Washington, D.C.1 He is a political and policy expert with extensive experience in various public policy areas, particularly focusing on energy and energy transition, transportation, infrastructure, technology, and national security.1

Professional Background

Ryan's career is marked by significant experience in government and policy-making:

• He previously served as a U.S. Senate Chief of Staff, which has given him deep knowledge of Washington, D.C. and valuable senior-level connections.1
• Before joining Akin Gump, he worked as a Senior Vice President at Ogilvy Government Relations from February 2011 to December 2012.1
• His government experience includes serving as Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe from May 2007 to June 2011.1
• Earlier in his career, he held positions as Press Secretary and Deputy Press Secretary in the U.S. Senate.1

Areas of Expertise

Ryan Thompson specializes in several key areas:

• Energy and Energy Transition: He represents both renewable and conventional energy companies before various government bodies, including Congress, the White House, and relevant departments.1
• Transportation and Infrastructure: Ryan has expert-level engagement with Congress and the Department of Transportation on aviation, marine, rail, and surface transportation regulation.1
• Artificial Intelligence, Technology, and Defense: He advises defense and technology clients on their interactions with Congress and the Department of Defense.1
• Private Equity and Venture Capital: Ryan supports firms in evaluating and mitigating political risk while amplifying political opportunities in Washington, D.C.1

Education

Ryan Thompson's educational background includes:

• A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from The University of Texas at Austin (1998-2002).1
• Continued studies in Political Economy at the University of Cape Town (2000-2001).1

In his current role, Ryan leverages his extensive government experience and policy expertise to help clients achieve their federal policy goals and navigate complex regulatory environments.1