He has a broad background as a public affairs professional and an entrepreneur. With over 14 years of experience, Chad specializes in strategic communications, lobbying, political strategy and business development. Chad has served in key roles assisting clients ranging from national nonprofits to major industry groups including the commercial irrigation industry, statewide campaigns, Big Brothers
Big Sisters of America and the pharmaceutical industry. In addition to a successful public affairs consulting practice, Chad has held leadership positions in the waste, nonprofit and energy sectors. While overseeing the public affairs department for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Texas, Chad led the state-wide effort to create the Amachi Texas initiative by developing successful partnerships with private business, the state of Texas and nonprofit organizations. Amachi Texas is a nationally recognized mentoring program which impacts the lives of thousands of at-risk children. Previously, Chad built and sold a regional waste services company based in Austin, Texas. He also owned River City Communications LLC, a strategic communications company that provided government relations consulting and political campaign management. He also served as marketing director for Houston-based oil exploration company GSI. Chad is a graduate of Texas Christian University where he received a degree in public relations. He is a graduate of Leadership Austin and was a fellow with St. John’s The Divine Church in Houston. Chad is often a guest speaker on topics ranging from faith to business and culture. He and his wife, Alison, call Austin home. I have had the opportunity to work with Chad Cantella on several different projects. In that time I have seen firsthand his talent and vision in action. Chad’s leadership was a key element in our success. Chad Cantella’s proven ability to develop and implement successful strategies for today’s ever-changing world is what makes the difference. Chad Sweet, Managing Principal, The Chertoff Group Former Chief of Staff, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
