October 15, 2026 | BOSTON, MA — Benchmark Strategies, a leading consulting firm with a focus on public affairs and strategic communications, is pleased to announce the promotion of Brian O’Connor to Vice President, Public Affairs.

Since joining Benchmark Strategies in 2024, Brian has played an increasingly important role within the firm’s Public Affairs practice, advising clients on complex legislative, regulatory, and government affairs matters across Massachusetts. His experience in public policy and business advocacy, combined with a strong understanding of the legislative process and state and local government, has made him a trusted resource to clients navigating consequential policy and public-sector issues.

“Brian has proven himself to be an exceptional public affairs professional and a trusted advisor to our clients,” said Patrick Bench, President of Benchmark Strategies. “He brings a thoughtful, strategic approach to every engagement, along with a deep understanding of Massachusetts government and the issues facing the business community. His promotion to Vice President reflects both the impact he has made at Benchmark and the leadership role he will continue to play as our Public Affairs practice grows.”

“Brian has distinguished himself through his judgment, policy instincts, and ability to see the broader strategic picture for our clients,” said Brian Domoretsky, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs at Benchmark Strategies. “He has also emerged as an important leader within our team and someone I trust to take ownership of increasingly complex engagements. I’m excited to see Brian continue to grow and help lead our practice in this expanded role.”

As Vice President, O’Connor will assume expanded responsibility for leading client engagements and developing and executing government affairs strategies, while contributing to the continued growth of Benchmark’s Public Affairs practice. He will continue to advise clients on legislative and regulatory matters, build relationships with policymakers and key stakeholders, and help organizations navigate opportunities and challenges across state and municipal government.

Prior to joining Benchmark, O’Connor spent more than three years on the Policy and Research team at the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. As Senior Manager of Government Relations, he analyzed legislation and public policy proposals affecting the Chamber’s 1,200 members, worked with employers to develop policy positions, coordinated advocacy with elected officials, and developed policy testimony representing the Chamber’s public policy priorities.

O’Connor previously served as a Policy Analyst for Massachusetts House Minority Leader Brad Jones, where his legislative portfolio included housing, transportation, financial services, election laws, capital expenditures, and redistricting.

O’Connor earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Northeastern University, a Master’s Degree in Political Science from the University of New Hampshire, and a B.A. in Political Science from Saint Anselm College.

About Benchmark Strategies

Benchmark Strategies is a leading consulting firm with a focus on public affairs and strategic communications.

Our passionate, client-driven team brings decades of experience in politics, media, and public relations that translates into excellent results and propels clients to succeed across every sector.

Since its founding in 2014, Benchmark Strategies has provided services to a broad and diverse base of clients including Fortune 500 companies and startups, leading information technology and security companies, non-profit institutions, industry trade groups, real estate developers and many more. Learn more at www.benchmark-strategies.com.