Who We Are

About us

Trusted Experts • Problems Solved • Value Delivered

Driven by Honesty & Excellence

McBride Consulting and Business Development Group has served the needs of our Clients for nearly 40 years. Honesty, integrity, and an unwavering drive toward excellence in everything we undertake are the hallmarks of our contributions to Client success throughout the country. We approach each Client’s business goals with a commitment to work hand in hand with you to achieve them. We listen and learn what your strategic initiatives are and then formulate innovative solutions to propel your business toward achieving that vision.

Founded by President, CEO, and Owner Robert McBride, the McBride Consulting and Business Development Group is a premier team of lobbyists, consultants, subject matter experts, and diligent staff each with impressive track records of experience and success. Yet the true strength of our firm comes not from individual achievement, but the victories we’ve accomplished collectively as a group on our Client’s behalf.

Through a combination of public and private-sector expertise, our team understands the challenges facing both government and private enterprise. Our connections to key policy makers and industry leaders – along with proven success in navigating those challenges in the most efficient and effective way possible – is why our reputation is second to none.

Our Mission & Vision

At McBride Consulting and Business Development Group, our mission is to outwork the competition, deliver on our promises, and create success through innovative solutions and a practical application of good old fashioned hard work. We’re committed to partnering with elected officials, community leaders, business owners, non-profit organizations, and their respective teams to cultivate and leverage relationships based on honesty and respect. Your goals are our goals, and we will work tirelessly to ensure our partnership overcomes any obstacle to meeting your objectives.

Our vision is one of collective success for all involved – no matter the initiative – while striving to increase the greater good. We love what we do. Knowing we’re working to bring about truly impactful and beneficial achievements, and improving lives while we do so, is what keeps us going.

Our Core Values Are Our Foundation

Honesty • Integrity • Consistency • Communication • Partnership • Caring • Concern

Giving Back

Caring for others and giving back to one’s community is a philosophy that President and CEO Robert McBride holds dear. As a child of Irish immigrants who watched his father work two jobs to support his family, Robert doesn’t take success for granted. Instead, he feels it’s important to remain grounded and give back so as to always remember that there are those less fortunate who need our support. Over the last 40 years through the donation of his time, energy, and financial generosity, Robert has supported a number of local and national charitable organizations.

McBride Consulting and Business Development Group is proud to support such organizations as:

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giv_salvation
giv_eac
giv_healing
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Our Team

With offices and team members in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, Florida, and Colorado, McBride Consulting and Business Development Group is a dynamic group of professionals brought together from the highest levels of expertise in their respective fields.

Our staff and consultants each bring decades of experience from both the public and private sector, including prior service in industry sectors such as government, communications, non-profits and grant writing, military, security, law enforcement, and economic development.

Robert McBride

President & CEO

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Jamie Besner

Vice President

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Nick Cambas

Senior Vice President Government Relations

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Tom Cilmi

Vice President – Local Governments Practice

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Noel DiGerolamo

Managing Partner

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Amanda Field

Vice President-Public Health & Environment

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Tim Hendrickson

Director of Compliance

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Kim Kaye

Director of Grants and Fundraising Strategy

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Rochelle Kelly-Apson

Managing Partner

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Gregory Lavine

Vice President Government Affairs

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Kate McBride

Chief Administration Officer – Transportation Consultant

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Bob McBride

Executive Operations Director

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Russ McCormick

Vice President, Labor and Union Relations

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John McDonough

Vice President

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Christopher Melnyczuk

Director of Client Engagement

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Tom Metzger

Vice President – Public Works & Infrastructure Practice

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Paul Miller

Strategic Partner – Federal Legislation & Healthcare Specialist

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Jon Schneider

Managing Partner

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Rebecca Sinclair

Chief Operating Officer

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Paul Solda

Legal Counsel/Lobbyist

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Michael Spinelli

Vice President & Managing Director

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Vincent Vesce

Senior Vice President – Transportation & Aviation Practice

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James Williams

Executive VP – Military & Security Specialist

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Onika Shepherd

VP of Partnerships & Institutional Strategy

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Robert McBride

President & CEO

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Robert is a dynamic business and government affairs strategist with decades of experience advising large corporations and small businesses. With a strong background in construction, affordable housing, green energy, and waste management, Robert puts his experiences and network to work representing some of the largest companies in the world.

Robert currently serves as Founder, President, and CEO of McBride Consulting & Business Development Group where, in addition to representing his clients, he guides the strategic direction of the firm ensuring the firm’s continued commitment to the highest levels of client service, diversity and inclusion, pro bono work, and excellence.

Robert has consulted on several complex projects in New York and around the globe, ranging from growing a business to mitigating local, national, and international opposition to projects, navigating union matters, and advising how to navigate challenges inherent to large-scale projects.

Robert has a proven history of delivering results and driving growth that has resulted in the accumulation of hundreds of millions of new dollars for his clients throughout the years. He has worked with clients at all stages of business development, from start-ups to established multi-billion- dollar corporations. He has a talent for identifying areas of opportunity and developing tailored solutions to address them, whether through process improvements, strategic planning, or legislative initiatives.

A successful entrepreneur, Robert has built several profitable businesses. In addition to his role at McBride Consulting & Business Development Group, he continues to own and manage several enterprises, including Metro Transportation Planning & Solutions Group, a company based in Denver, CO, distinguished for its environmentally friendly Business Model.
Robert resides on Long Island with his wife Marion.

Honors and Affiliations

Robert is consistently voted one of City & State’s Top 50 New York State and New York City Lobbyists. Robert was chosen as a Top Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics, naming him as one of the Top 100 lobbyists in the United States.

He currently serves on the non-profit Boards of the New York League of Conservation Voters, EAC Network ( Empower. Assist. Care), Irish Americans in Government, and Operation Healing Forces.

Jamie Besner

Vice President

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Jamie expertly advocates, lobbies, and provides strategic direction on municipal government issues to clients across Canada as part of “the most prominent, powerful, and sought-after lobbyist firm working at City Hall”. -The Toronto Star

Jamie currently serves as both a partner and the lead of the Municipal Affairs practice at Sussex. He specializes in licensing and regulatory issues, public works and infrastructure projects, transit and transportation procurement, environmental issues, land development and zoning approvals, as well as economic development matters.

Career

Over the last 17 years, Jamie has successfully advocated for legislative policy changes, implemented procurement strategies and promoted new economic development projects on behalf of numerous Canadian and international Fortune 500 companies, industry associations, and professional unions. Under Jamie’s lead, the Sussex municipal affairs practice has strongly represented a client in virtually every major economic development initiative or policy debate that the City of Toronto has engaged in since its amalgamation.

While working at the City of Toronto, Jamie served as Executive Assistant to Councillor David Shiner where he gained an in-depth knowledge of the legislative and inner political workings of Toronto Council. His areas of focus included Works, Transportation, Budget, and Economic Development matters.

Jamie’s political involvement encompasses all three levels of government. He served as Executive Assistant to Mayor Mel Lastman and Director of Operations during 1997 Mayoralty Campaign. As a political organizer, campaign manager, and fundraiser he has organized and worked on many successful campaigns in both Ontario and Quebec over the last 25 years. These experiences have provided him with an extensive network of business and political contacts that he engages on behalf of his clients.

Jamie is a native of Montreal and is fluently bilingual. He attended York University’s Glendon College specializing in International Relations and Political Science. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Just for Laughs/ JFL42 Comedy Festival in Toronto.

Nick Cambas

Senior Vice President Government Relations

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Nick brings 37 years of experience in all aspects of Transportation Management Service to the McBride Consulting & Business Development Group. He is a proven leader in Ground Transportation, taxi, limousine, NEMT, and Paratransit industry when it comes to providing safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation solutions.

Career

Throughout Nick’s transportation career, which started with his family’s Clearwater, FL based Yellow Cab operation before he’d even graduated from Hillsborough Community College, much of his focus has been on providing reliable and safe paratransit, transportation disadvantaged, and Medicaid NEMT services.

Currently, Nick is the President-elect for The Transportation Alliance, which represents the interests of members in 250 cities on four continents, including airport shuttle, executive sedan, limousine, non-emergency medical transportation, paratransit, and taxicab fleets. The Transportation Alliance is the largest trade organization in the industry, with members operating over 100,000 vehicles and serving 900 million passengers per year.

As a previously appointed member of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged, Nick was instrumental in establishing effective laws and regulations for the coordination of transportation services and resources in State-funded transportation programs.

Throughout Nick’s transportation career, which started with his family’s Clearwater, FL based Yellow Cab operation before he’d even graduated from Hillsborough Community College, much of his focus has been on providing reliable and safe paratransit, transportation disadvantaged, and Medicaid NEMT services.

In 2004, Nick formed the TMS Management Group, Inc. (TMS), a premier transportation management/brokerage firm that specialized in providing quality non-emergency transportation services to numerous public and private organizations across the nation. TMS offered transportation services to 13 different states and provided services to 3 million eligible healthcare members  nationwide. In 2005, Nick started Bay Area Metro, LLC which provides on-demand ground transportation services to the general public. The company is also involved in the DART “Choice” Program with the local Transit Agency and works closely with many governmental agencies on various innovative transportation programs.

Nick currently serves or has served on many boards directly related to the ground transportation industry including the Transportation Alliance (formerly Taxicab Limousine Paratransit Association), Bay Area Commuter Service (BACS), and the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD).

Tom Cilmi

Vice President – Local Governments Practice

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As former Minority Leader of the Suffolk County Legislature, with two decades of private sector management experience and solid relationships across party lines at every level of government, Tom Cilmi is uniquely qualified to help McBride Group clients increase profitability, improve community/customer relations, and achieve business development goals. Developing and implementing successful, innovative, and strategic solutions to complex business, government, and civic challenges makes up the foundation of his career.

Career

Tom’s business experience stems from a variety of industries including music, digital publishing, manufacturing, commercial printing, and communications. Tom has always delivered substantial growth in sales and profitability, no matter the industry, while simultaneously increasing employee morale and accountability.

In the political world, Tom was elected to the Suffolk County Legislature in 2009 and quickly developed a reputation for being a fierce advocate for business. Whether working with County and Town officials to expedite permits, working through regulatory obstacles, or speaking out against burdensome policy proposals, Tom made sure that business had a voice.

Twice recognized among Long Island’s 50 Most Influential People by the Long Island Press, he successfully fought for changes to the County’s budget process and for compromise on important water quality legislation. Tom sponsored innovative legislation to fast-track veterans’ public assistance applications, as well as bills to make the regulatory process and the voter referendum process more transparent. He also sits on the Board of the Suffolk County Land Bank Corporation, a not-for-profit formed to address contaminated brownfield properties and zombie homes. Despite being a member of the Republican minority, Tom has been remarkably successful — the result of strong negotiating skills and bipartisan relationships built on mutual respect.

Born and raised in West Babylon and a resident of the Town of Islip for more than thirty years, Tom and his wife, Anna, are deeply rooted in the community. He served as President of the Islip Chamber of Commerce, President of the East Islip Soccer Club, and is a member of Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, Sons of Italy, and Knights of Columbus.  He sits on the Development Committee for United Veterans Beacon House and is involved with a number of other charitable organizations.

Noel DiGerolamo

Managing Partner

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“While law enforcement has defined much of my career, the reality is much of what I accomplished during my tenure as head of the Suffolk County PBA was about finding solutions to issues based on insight, respectful discussions, and compromise. I look forward to bringing that skill to the broad range of clients in the McBride portfolio”

“While law enforcement has defined much of my career, the reality is much of what I accomplished during my tenure as head of the Suffolk County PBA was about finding solutions to issues based on insight, respectful discussions, and compromise. I look forward to bringing that skill to the broad range of clients in the McBride portfolio”

A Suffolk County native, DiGerolamo joined the New York City Police Department in 1992, following his return from the Gulf War. By 1995, he was a member of the Suffolk County police force, becoming involved in PBA leadership shortly thereafter. He assumed the role of President in 2012 and served three terms before retiring. He was most recently part of the transition team appointed by incoming Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.

In addition to his PBA role, he organized all municipal unions in Suffolk to create SCOPE, the Suffolk Coalition of Public Employees, as a legal entity that represents all County employees and retirees for healthcare benefits. As a result, DiGerolamo negotiated the longest healthcare agreement in Suffolk County history. As President of SCOPE and the labor Co-Chair on the Employee Medical Health Plan, he worked collaboratively with management to administer the existing health benefit plan for over 47,000 County employees, retirees, and dependents.

A resident of Mount Sinai, DiGerolamo lives there with his wife Nancy and three children, Noel Jr., Elena, and Jacqueline.

Amanda Field

Vice President-Public Health & Environment

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Amanda is a distinguished leader recognized for her unique expertise and effective leadership in both government and business sectors, known for her ability to bring key stakeholders to the table to form practical solutions.

Amanda is a distinguished leader recognized for her unique expertise and effective leadership in both government and business sectors, known for her ability to bring key stakeholders to the table to form practical solutions. As a business executive, public health and environmental advocate, she served as Commissioner of Water during a pivotal time in history, prompting advocacy with State and Federal policy. She has held leadership positions on several regional and statewide drinking water and environmental organizations, proactively leading critical policy and regulatory priorities. These organizations include Commissioner of Water for the Plainview Water District, Legislative Co-chair of the Long Island Water Conference, President and Legislative Chair of Nassau-Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association, Legislative Communications Committee, NYS American Water Works Association, NYS Clean Water Coalition, Northrop-Grumman-Navy Groundwater Plume CPRG.

Tim Hendrickson

Director of Compliance

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Tim brings a wide range of experience in operations management and efficiency to McBride Consulting. His background includes leadership roles in industry sectors such as security and private investigations, communications, nonprofit program development for vulnerable populations, grant and proposal writing, and renewable energy.

Tim Hendrickson is a former U.S. Army Captain with five years of active-duty service, including two deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he maintained a Top Secret Clearance as a Military Intelligence officer and analyst. Tim served first as a combat arms platoon leader and later as a military advisor and liaison to the National Information and Investigation Agency, the Iraqi government’s equivalent of our own FBI. 

Awards and Titles

Having most recently served as the Director of Investigations for a background screening and private investigations firm, Tim previously served as the Assistant Regional Manager for the New York City office of Summit Security Services, Inc., in which he managed a security force of nearly 2,000 personnel. Prior to this he served as the Operations Manager of a 400-member security force in protection of Port Authority of NY & NJ infrastructure while with Summit. Other roles include the Director of Veterans Services for Fedcap Rehabilitation Services, Inc., as an executive protection agent for Gavin De Becker & Associates, and as a wind turbine renewable energy Project Manager for Noble Environmental Power.  

Tim’s military awards and decorations include the Combat Action Badge, the Basic Parachutist Badge, two Army Commendation Medals, the Army Achievement Medal, two Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, two Iraq Campaign Medals, the Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon. Tim contributed to his company earning the prestigious Draper Award, presented to the best company in the 1st Cavalry Division during his first deployment, and was awarded the Warrior Spirit Citation for excellence in small unit tactics during his Officer Basic Course.   

A native of Long Island, Tim graduated with a B.A. in History from Hofstra University and was awarded the school’s ROTC program Distinguished Military Graduate citation upon his commissioning. A prolific writer in his spare time, Tim is also a traditionally published fiction author. His debut novel was released by the Tor/Forge Publishing Group, an imprint of Macmillan Publishers, in April 2023.  

Kim Kaye

Director of Grants and Fundraising Strategy

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Kimberly Kaye is a researcher and writer with 20 years of experience helping clients craft powerful narratives which engage donors. Her background in journalism insures she brings an editor’s eye to everything from grant applications to digital copy. Kimberly’s years of work in health care accessibility mean she’s well-versed in fundraising, as well as navigating which opportunities are the best fit for what clients. Her writing has appeared in The Economist, The Observer, The New York Daily News, numerous magazines, and several award-winning podcasts.

Kimberly Kaye is a researcher and writer with 20 years of experience helping clients craft powerful narratives which engage donors. Her background in journalism insures she brings an editor’s eye to everything from grant applications to digital copy. Kimberly’s years of work in health care accessibility mean she’s well-versed in fundraising, as well as navigating which opportunities are the best fit for what clients. Her writing has appeared in The Economist, The Observer, The New York Daily News, numerous magazines, and several award-winning podcasts.

Rochelle Kelly-Apson

Managing Partner – Energy and Economic Development Practice

Rochelle has spent her career supporting communities across New York State by providing organizational support and maintaining a wide network of colleagues.

Rochelle has experience working in several industries, including community organizing, labor, government, and political campaigns. She has used her time to train union members about their contractual rights and political power and is passionate about uplifting and empowering others.

Career

During her time in government, Rochelle led the organizing and outreach efforts for several landmark initiatives and issues. These have included State legislation to prevent prescription drug abuse, the funding of housing counselors and attorneys as part of the 2008 mortgage crisis relief efforts, the investigations of unarmed civilian deaths by law enforcement, and the review of law enforcement “stop and frisk” practices which highlighted the disparity in stops of minorities in the state. On the local front, Rochelle helped set up the Town of Hempstead’s new administrations, leading them to host their first ever summer job fair guaranteeing town jobs to qualified applicants and the first ever school superintendent summit for the over 30 school districts within the town.Rochelle has held key roles in over a dozen campaigns in Buffalo, NYC, and Long Island, as well as in statewide races. She has held executive positions in the offices of the Town of Hempstead on Long Island as deputy chief of staff, the NYS Attorney General as deputy director of intergovernmental affairs, and the NYS Governor as downstate director of intergovernmental affairs. She has also worked in public affairs, engaging with the press and managing digital media campaigns.

As a public affairs consultant at McBride Consulting and Business Development Group, Rochelle has worked with a myriad of clients on issues such as school bus safety, housing, labor, gaming, transportation, criminal justice reform, and wind energy. She also advised on several election campaigns.
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In her private capacity, Rochelle is the public policy chair for the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Long Island

Gregory Lavine

Vice President Government Affairs

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Greg Lavine brings over twenty years of experience in government relations, public affairs, communications, and political strategy to McBride Consulting and Business Development Group.

Greg has served in all sectors of government at the municipal, state, federal, and international levels. He possesses a deep understanding of public affairs and governance, allowing him to advise clients using sophisticated strategies for complex issues. He has represented a diverse array of interests, including a specialized practice in the emerging cannabis industry in New York.

Career

Prior to joining McBride Consulting, Greg worked with a large public affairs firm serving clients in non-profit, corporate, political, healthcare, retail, transportation-technology, and real estate spaces.

Greg had a seat at the table in local and federal matters as District Director to Congresswoman Grace Meng and Chief to Staff to former New York City Councilmember Karen Koslowitz.

He started his career as an aide to former Delaware Governor Ruth Ann Minner, a Legislative Assistant in the Delaware State Senate, and as an intern in (former) United States Senator Joe Biden’s office.

Greg also has experience in the international realm, working at the United Nations and with a global NGO. He is a proud alumnus of the University of Delaware and attended the Graduate Program in International Affairs at The New School.

Greg’s community commitment extends to his board memberships with the American Red Cross Long Island Chapter, Maple Grove Cemetery, and Friends of the Queensway.

Kate McBride

Chief Administration Officer – Transportation Consultant

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A key driver behind the McBride team, Kate ensures that our day-to-day management and operational activities meet both our clients’ expectations and our company goals. She assists the team in coordinating, monitoring, and managing projects while acting as a vital liaison between clients and the internal team, ensuring all company communications run smoothly both internally and externally.

Transportation Consultant: Kate founded Transportation Safety Planning and Solutions Group in 2018.  After becoming aware that school districts were not completing documentation required by the New York State Comptrollers Report and Federal Laws, she recognized the need to help school districts and the industry to improve school bus safety.
Her main priority and motivation is to keep students (our most precious cargo) SAFE. TSPSGroup is a proud Woman Owned Business Enterprise (WBE).

Chief Administration Officer: Kate’s dependability, collaborative nature, and motivated mindset make her quite the asset at MCBDG. She is detail-oriented with a precise eye that helps accomplish both daily operational details and complex client projects. Kate is a team-player with stellar communication and relationship-building skills who strives to achieve and exceed her goals, as well as those of MCBDG and all of our clients.

Prior to joining MCBDG, Kate managed a large transportation company for ten years in Denver, CO. She was responsible for managing the execution, direction, and coordination of all transportation matters, including budgets, schedules & routes, making sure all vehicles met safety and legal requirements. She also managed human resources for employees.

Kate earned a BA from C.W. Post, Long Island University. She lives happily on Long Island and likes to travel the world in her free time, exploring its broad range of cultures. When she can’t travel, she happily spends time near the ocean, hiking, or skiing. 

Bob McBride

Executive Operations Director

Bob’s extensive experience in the transportation industry has provided him with valuable knowledge and resources to help our clients at McBride Consulting and Business Development Group.

For the last 15 years, Bob has been the Vice President of the largest vehicle-for-hire operation in the state of Colorado. He spearheaded all vehicle purchases and fleet maintenance, ensuring a high level of quality, and that all vehicles met both city and state mandates and the Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification. These vehicles included passenger sedans, 13+ passenger vans, buses, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and the largest green fleet awarded by the City of Denver and Colorado. He returns to his home state of NY and brings his experiences and expertise to the McBride Consulting and Business Development Group.

Russ McCormick

Vice President, Labor and Union Relations

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Russ brings to McBride Consulting & Business Development Group an extensive skillset in budget review and management, community outreach and liaison efforts, and legislative lobbying on the local, state, and federal level.

With over 32 years of law enforcement experience, Russ is a veteran of both the New York City and Suffolk County Police Departments, retiring in 2016 from the SCPD’s Office of the Chief of Detectives. Throughout his exemplary career as an officer and detective, Russ conducted and oversaw hundreds of investigations into a broad range of criminal activity, to include organized crime cases and nationwide fugitive apprehensions. Russ was also part of Dignitary Protection details, providing security for VIPs out of the Chief of Department’s office.

During his time with SCPD, Russ served as a Suffolk County Detectives Union official, working hand in hand with the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association to administer their PBA Benefit Fund. As a result of his time with the Detectives Union, Russ became highly regarded and sought after as a subject matter expert in labor and management contract negotiations, municipal and private labor organizations engagement, and adjudication of both labor and disciplinary cases. His expertise has been utilized by high profile business executives, media personalities, and executive offices within the United States government.

Russ brings to McBride Consulting & Business Development Group an extensive skillset in budget review and management, community outreach and liaison efforts, and legislative lobbying on the local, state, and federal level. He has worked with, is a member of, and has represented members of the SCPD with the Suffolk County PBA, the Suffolk County Detectives Union, the Suffolk Police Conference, the National Association of Police Organizations, and the International Narcotic Enforcement Offices Association.

Russ’s professional training and certifications includes major case investigations, advanced forensics, fraudulent document investigations, and media relations. He was honored as Police Officer of the Year for 1990 by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Russ is active in organizing and conducting ongoing clothing drives in partnership with the Reverend Mack Davis in Wyandanch, NY.

Born and raised in Queens, Russ now calls Huntington home. He enjoys boating and golfing in his spare time.

John McDonough

Vice President

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John brings decades of crisis management and business know-how to his business development role for the McBride Group, supported by his personal values of honesty, integrity, and hard work to get the job done.

John’s experience in both the private and civil service sectors allowed him to hone and refine his skills with great results for the organizations and customers he served. He credits his Marine Corp training with installing a can-do work ethic where no job is beneath him and success is based on his personnel oversight and communication skills.

Twenty-seven years ago, John made the switch to Civil Service as a New York State Court Officer where he rose through the ranks to become a Captain. He managed, trained, and supported a team of up to 100 Officers. John understands what it takes to motivate and manage a team and knows what is necessary to make a venture successful.

Committed to community and fiercely proud of his Irish heritage, John currently sits on the Board of the Brehon Law Society of Nassau County and is a past President and current Board member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick on Long Island. He also is on the Irish Studies Advisory Board at Molloy College. He has been honored by The Irish Echo, the Long Beach Lawyers Association, and the Matrimonial Bar – Nassau County Bar Association. John has also been involved in political campaigning and fundraising for well over 20 years.

John lives with his wife of 21 years and his 19-year-old Daughter. John and his wife are kept entertained and busy with their “boys,” a black lab named Murphy (a guide dog school dropout) and Reilly, a little terrier that was a Superstorm Sandy rescue who has become Murphy’s constant companion. When not working or spending time with his family, you will find John out on a golf course.

Christopher Melnyczuk

Director of Client Engagement

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Chris joined McBride Consulting & Business Development Group after years of extensive service in various leadership roles with campaigns, a government agency, and political committees, most notably serving almost eight years as Chief of Staff for New York State and Nassau County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs. Prior to this, Chris held roles as the Treasurer for the Nassau County Democratic Committee, an Election Clerk and Assistant Supervisor of the 2016 Presidential Election Call Center for the Nassau County Board of Elections, and as a Campaign Manager for the Nassau County Democratic Committee.

Chris joined McBride Consulting & Business Development Group after years of extensive service in various leadership roles with campaigns, a government agency, and political committees, most notably serving almost eight years as Chief of Staff for New York State and Nassau County Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs. Prior to this, Chris held roles as the Treasurer for the Nassau County Democratic Committee, an Election Clerk and Assistant Supervisor of the 2016 Presidential Election Call Center for the Nassau County Board of Elections, and as a Campaign Manager for the Nassau County Democratic Committee.

Chris’s exemplary skillset encompasses all facets one would expect of a seasoned political strategist. Utilizing a solid foundation of research and analytical abilities, Chris is able to dissect complicated issues at hand and formulate strategic initiatives that produce results in the most effective and efficient manner. This includes but is not limited to community and stakeholder engagement, media relations, and cross-collaboration that leverages existing relationships while building new connections.

Also with extensive experience in speech writing, crafting press releases, and event planning, Chris has an in-depth understanding of how to reach people on levels important to them while maximizing every interaction for a positive outcome. As Director of Client Engagement, Chris utilizes this skillset to work hand in hand with our Clients to discern their desired end state, identify challenges and roadblocks that may be present, and actively produce solutions that result in real, tangible benefits to all involved.

Chris’s education includes Bachelors degrees in Communications Studies and Political Science from the State University of New York at Oneonta. He has also completed Economic and Public Policy coursework through the Fund for American Studies at George Mason University, as well as attended briefings at the Central Intelligence Agency and Hart Senate Building. A native of New York, Chris was born in Queens and raised on Long Island in East Meadow.

Tom Metzger

Vice President – Public Works & Infrastructure Practice

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Tom is pleased to focus over three decades of top-level people and project management, systems development, community-minded service, and his deep knowledge on government procurement to the clients of the McBride Consulting & Business Development Group.

A natural problem solver, people connector, and political strategist, Tom honed these attributes to an incredibly effective edge during his years as Superintendent of Sanitation for the Town of Hempstead, NY. Over the years, Tom’s effort to help good people — those truly interested in helping people — get elected so they could positively impact their communities has proved fruitful.

Tom loves a challenge and is driven to solve any problems he encounters. He sees the big picture and connects the dots to bring the right people together to accomplish the goal. With a lifelong dedication to ensure clean, safe, and responsible environments for residents and employees, he dedicated his time in the municipal solid waste (MSW) industry bridging gaps between government and the private sector. Tom’s involvement ensured that projects were successfully completed while he always looked to identify and forestall future problems, implement creative and effective solutions, and overall improve MSW systems, processes, safety, and management.

After Super Storm Sandy in 2012, Tom was an integral leader in the cleanup efforts following the devastation. Tom brought his exceptional organizational abilities to the effort, leading the way to recovery for the Town of Hempstead.

Tom spent many years supporting his community by coaching young athletes in soccer, lacrosse, and strength training in the Bay Shore area. He was named East Rockaway Republican Man of the Year in 2000, earned the Congressman Norman Lent Award in 2006, and the Village Pride Party Community Service Award in 2019.

Tom lives in Bay Shore, Long Island with his wife of 33 years, Jacqueline, and their three daughters. He’s a passionate dog owner with four Special Forces-trained dogs of his own, while also breeding dogs that go on to work with the SEALs, Special Forces, or the Police. When not working or spending time with his family, Tom enjoys golfing, fishing, and his daily run with his dogs.

Paul Miller

Strategic Partner – Federal Legislation & Healthcare Specialist

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Paul possesses decades of experience on Capitol Hill successfully formulating and executing government affairs strategies on behalf of clients. Over the years, Paul has successfully leveraged his expertise to build partnerships that drive public policy through strong relationships with both executive and legislative branches of government that cross the ideological spectrum.

Roles and Projects

In 2005, Paul was elected the youngest President of the American League of Lobbyists (now the Association of Government Relations Professionals), the national association representing the lobbying profession. In 2016, Paul started the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics where he currently serves as President.

Paul was also instrumental in shaping the debate on lobbying reform in 2006 and 2007. As chief spokesman and lobbyist for the profession, Paul met with leaders from both parties on the issue of reform. He has appeared before both the House and Senate and has appeared on most television programs educating the public on the issue of lobbying and proposed changes to the Lobbying Disclosure Act. He has been a tireless champion in the fight to protect every citizen’s right to petition their government through lobbying activities.

He has appeared on NBC Nightly News, ABC News, C-Span, CNN, MSNBC, The News Hour with Jim Lehr, and Lou Dobbs discussing ethics and transparency issues.

Paul currently serves on his alma mater’s Deans Advisory Board at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. In 2013, Paul was named Northern Virginia Businessman of the Year.

As a leader in his profession, Paul has met with global leaders—here and abroad—from Peru, Chile, Indonesia, Great Britain, Brazil, Viet Nam, Czechoslovakia, Italy, Scandinavia, Poland, and Japan to talk about lobbying and how they can go about creating an effective system for lobbyists in their countries.

Paul believes strongly that giving back to the community is an important part of any business.  In 1999, he created the Hoops for Youth Foundation, which pits members of Congress vs. lobbyists each year in an effort to raise money for children’s charities in the Washington, D.C. area. To date the Foundation has raised over $2.5 million for local kids.

Born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin, Paul received his B.S. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater. Paul spent his senior year interning for former U.S. Congressman Les Aspin.

He is married to Amy and they have two daughters, Taylor and Alexis.

Jon Schneider

Managing Partner

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“A behind-the-scenes deal maker … he has helped broker deals with unions, wrangle legislative votes, and devise political agendas for some of the island’s most powerful people.” – City and State

Jon Schneider is a strategic public affairs and relations communications professional who brings over 20 years of knowledge, skill, and experience to the McBride Consulting & Business Development Group.

Throughout his career, Jon has consistently worked with individuals and organizations that strive to improve their communities. His focus on the strategy behind the goals and approaching any opportunity with a collaborative viewpoint has helped private clients achieve their visions and elected officials meet their policy objectives.

History:

Jon served in Congress for 10 years as Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director for Congressman Tim Bishop where he worked on key issues like coastal protection, ensuring support for major facilities like Brookhaven National Laboratory, and the 106th Air Rescue Wing. While serving as Deputy County Executive for Intergovernmental Affairs for Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone’s administration, he managed the County’s intergovernmental and communications staff, including serving as an on-the-record spokesperson and drafting key addresses.  Jon worked closely with key leaders in Albany and passed critical elements of the County Executive’s agenda, including legislation to create a Traffic and Parking Violations Agency, expansion of gaming to Suffolk County, and securing the largest investment in clean water infrastructure in Suffolk County in 40 years.

Jon most recently served as Director of Public Relations for Long Island University where he also led the University’s government relations efforts and worked with former Congressman Steve Israel to establish the Global Institute at LIU.

A native Long Islander, Jon’s happy to be living in and working for the communities of his home town. He lives in Suffolk County with his wife, Mary Ellen, and their two children, Eleanor, 11, and Benjamin, 8. In what spare time he can find, he enjoys watching Netflix with his family, and running, including the occasional half marathon.

Rebecca Sinclair

Chief Operating Officer

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A native New Yorker, Rebecca brings a wealth of operational experience at the highest level and a deep understanding and passion for community renewal and economic development. She has held high-ranking positions at the State, County, and Town level, in addition to private sector experience.

Roles

Rebecca was most recently Suffolk County Deputy Commissioner of Economic Development and Planning where her duties included oversight of the Planning and Real Estate Departments and coordination of department goals with legislative requirements.  In that role, she also served as Deputy Director of the COVID-19 Recovery Taskforce where she coordinated the application and use of tens of millions in federal funding for Suffolk County.

Rebecca previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Town of Hempstead, the nation’s largest township, where her duties included operational oversight of multiple departments and coordination of several high-profile initiatives including the Nassau HUB and Belmont Arena.  She also served as Director of Buyouts and Acquisitions for the New York Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery following Superstorm Sandy.  In that position she was responsible for the purchase of over 2,000 privately owned storm damaged houses and insuring that more than $760M in spending was done in accordance with applicable State and Federal rules and regulations.

A graduate of the State University at Albany with a degree in Urban Planning, Rebecca has been a featured speaker at a number of national and regional conferences, including the American Planning Association and Audubon New York.  Her leadership includes serving on several major committees including the Belmont Park Redevelopment Community Advisory Committee, Nassau Coliseum (HUB) Community Advisory Committee, Baldwin Downtown Revitalizations Initiative Local Planning Committee, and Health and Human Welfare Council of Long Island Census Local Government Committee.

Paul Solda

Legal Counsel/Lobbyist

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As a practicing attorney, Paul Solda brings considerable expertise having represented businesses for over 30 years. His litigation acumen offers a reliable asset to McBride Consulting given his abilities to lend legal advice on all aspects of business.

Paul Solda is a licensed attorney who has operated a diversified business law practice in New York for over three decades. His ambitious practice is centered around commercial litigation involving all types of business claims – and he can take cases (whether plaintiff or defendant) – through trial and even appeal. He also handles transactional work involving banking, finance, business sales, intellectual property, labor and tax matters. Mr. Solda has also been affiliated with several general practice law firms, serving of counsel given his litigation expertise. In the 1990’s, while developing his practice in Nassau County, he split time serving as general counsel to a prominent manufacturing company located in Lehigh County, PA. From 2001 through 2021, he stationed his law practice in the Empire State Building – sharing a legal suite with nearly two dozen attorneys with differing legal specialties. Currently, his office is located in Grand Central Station where he continues to represent long-standing clients dedicated to his creative advocacy skills.

Mr. Solda has garnered acclaim having been featured in approximately one dozen front page news articles in nearly as many years – by guiding clients in groundbreaking lawsuits all while achieving extraordinary successes. As an example, he fought for an entire industry by suing New York City for violations of a business’s constitutional and civil rights, and in the process – had a prominent commercial statute ruled unconstitutional.

Prior to earning his Juris Doctor degree from New York Law School in 1988, Mr. Solda obtained his undergraduate Bachelors degree in 1985 from Villanova University – where he majored in political science. He was admitted to practice law in New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. and admitted to practice in the federal court districts located throughout New York State, Eastern Pennsylvania and Florida. Of further distinction, he was admitted in 2023 before the second highest court in the nation – the U.S. Court Appeals. As a result of his tenure, Mr. Solda has developed a talent for solving business challenges, having learned to amicably work with all parties and by using the law to its full resort.

A New York native, Mr. Solda was raised in Merrick, Long Island and now resides in New York City with his wife, Polina and son, Sergio.

Michael Spinelli

Vice President & Managing Director

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Michael brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a talent for relationship building to McBride Consulting and Business Development Group. His ability to connect the right people means goals are met and the job gets done.

Michael started his own company in 1992 to consult with transportation companies in the areas of business development, customer service, and government relations. By the mid-90s his focus shifted to primarily business lobbying to help negotiate between business owners and government. With over 25 years of experience consulting and business lobbying, Michael is an important resource to us and our clients.

As a business lobbyist, his efforts have often focused on hospitality, tourism, utilities, ground transportation, traffic safety, and insurance, although he has represented many other areas of business interest.

Michael works diligently to find the best long-term solution. He wants to ensure the solution he finds for his client not only solves any immediate problem but doesn’t create any surprising long-term issues— he keeps his eye on the big picture. Business owners seek him out because they know he can help solve their problem or connect him with the person who can. His reputation for being honest, direct, and easy to work with precedes him.

A Florida resident who splits his time between Orlando and Tallahassee, Michael is the proud father of a United States Naval Academy graduate—his son is now a Lieutenant Commander serving as an active- duty surgeon. Michael’s free time is swept up by being the happy grandfather of two young boys and spending time with family and friends, cooking, and visiting Sicily and southern Italy.

Vincent Vesce

Senior Vice President – Transportation & Aviation Practice

Vincent holds the belief that those who hold public office at the local level should focus on building blocks that help communities grow and make the environment safe for all its citizens.

Vincent A. Vesce is a life-long resident of Peekskill, whose family goes back four generations. Vincent served on the Peekskill City Council for 4 years and then served 15-years in the Aviation Department of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, holding management positions at John F. Kennedy International Airport, as well as in the corporate headquarters located in New York City.

As a member of the Peekskill City Council, Vinny worked to provide and ensure a quality of life for its citizens that provides a safe, friendly environment, support essential services and necessary programs that serve the community in an efficient manner, crafts a welcoming business environment that will drive the community’s growth and provide opportunity for its citizens, and, finally, creates an overall civic environment that attracts individuals and families and motivates them to want to call Peekskill home.

Vinny has more than 24 years of experience in the aviation industry and currently serves as a key advisor in the review of industry best practices and operational efficiencies for many airports and business entities, both locally and nationally. While spending most of his career at The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey managing the airport access operations at all five PANYNJ airports, Vinny has become well known in the industry for providing service to those in need of a thorough understanding of government contract administration, intermodal transportation programs, parking management, airport access and aviation landside operations.

He helps clients on the business development front, as an advisor on operational and technical matters, as well as in a public relations capacity. This type of work requires that Vinny not only entertains and meets with customers related to the work being performed on behalf of our clients but also consistently delivers value to all.

Vinny holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Lynn University, is a graduate of the Assumption School, attended Peekskill High School, and is a Blair Academy Alum.

James Williams

Executive VP – Military & Security Specialist

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James is an international business consultant who has experience in numerous industries. He has been in executive positions in healthcare, information, software, high technology industries, financial services, and in international commerce trade industries.

History:

He has served his country for 38 years in the military with the United States Marine Corps and retired with the rank of Major General in 2010. He has commanded Marines at every level in combat operations and readiness. General Williams was last assigned as the Commanding General, 4th Marine Division and served on the Secretary of Defense’s Reserve Force Policy Board. Included in his military decorations are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, the Korea Defense Medal, and the National Defense Medal, to name a few.

During the Carter and Reagan Presidencies, Major General Williams served as a Military White House Social Aide. He was serving at The White House during the Middle East Peace talks between Israel and Egypt, the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with the Russians, the rescue attempt to free American hostages from Iran, and during the assassination attempt on President Reagan in 1981.

Major General Williams received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Slippery Rock University, PA. His education includes Master’s Degrees from Georgetown University in Government and National Affairs, and Yale University in Hospital Management and Public Health/Finance. He has completed program studies at Harvard’s JFK School of Government in the National and International Studies Program. General Williams has completed the LOGTECH Program, Center of Excellence in Logistics and Technology, University of North Carolina, Kenan-Flagler Business School, Chapel Hill, North Carolina and a Master of Science in Strategic Studies, U.S. Army War College, Carlisle Barracks, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Roles/Titles:

Major General Williams has served or is serving on Boards of Directors and/or Boards of Advisors on the for-profit companies: Zenneck Power, LLC., Mobile Equity Corporation ‘dba’ Qruz, and DCG International. In the non-profit sector; The Tower Center at Southern Methodist University, the North Texas Crime Commission, the Admiral Nimitz Foundation and National Museum of the Pacific War, The American Board of Physician Specialties and Disaster Medicine Committee, The Veterans Coalition of North Central Texas, the VA Medical Center of North Texas, the World Craniofacial Foundation, The Bridge-Homeless Program, and International Learning of Texas School, a public charter school.

Major General Williams has repeatedly proven himself to be an asset at McBride Consulting and Business Development Group. His extensive experience in government, military, and other sectors makes him a knowledgeable and well-connected resource for us and our clients. In his spare time, James spends numerous hours helping Veterans and surviving spouses fight for the benefits and services they so rightfully deserve.

Onika Shepherd

Vice President of Partnerships and Institutional Strategy

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Onika Shepherd has been in the labor movement leading 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East for over twenty years – she has served as Political Director of Long Island for six years. Onika has always had a passion for social change and that has put her on the frontline of opportunities to empower workers into realizing their power in collective action.

As Political Director, she has led the innovative development of member engagement, outreach and political campaigns in alignment with the organization’s strategic plan. Under her leadership, Onika was responsible for an active political program that produced significant and measurable outcomes that has positioned her as a working professional who is diligent, outcome-focused, and a successful collaborator.

In her advocacy role, Onika’s capacity to work in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, such as elected officials and other community leaders, is critical. She embodies a commitment for ways to create impact in “real-time” through the laws and legislation impacting the lives of the organization’s members and their community.

In addition, Onika’s active involvement in several affiliations exemplifies her commitment to promoting labor rights and equity. Long Island Federation of Labor, Occupational & Environmental Medicine of Long Island, Nassau County Living Wage Board member, Executive Boards of organizations like Advancing Local Leadership for Women, Long Island Jobs with Justice; are just a few of her current affiliations.

Onika’s commitment to empowering workers is also evident in the other roles she serves. As a Board of Advisors member at Hofstra University’s Center for the Study of Labor and Democracy, and a state-wide organization called Eleanor’s Legacy. This is something she takes great pride and encouragement in – calls to action from both, and for the voices of workers, especially women. This is a lifetime opportunity and commitment. Onika is married with three children.

Bridget Fleming

Vice President, Economic Development and Land Use

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The Hon. Bridget Fleming, former Suffolk County Legislator and East End Town Board Member, has more than 20 years of government experience. Respected on both sides of the political aisle, Bridget has a reputation for being able to meet complex challenges by focusing on practical outcomes that bring benefits to all parties

Roles

The Hon. Bridget Fleming, former Suffolk County Legislator and East End Town Board Member, has more than 20 years of government experience. Respected on both sides of the political aisle, Bridget has a reputation for being able to meet complex challenges by focusing on practical outcomes that bring benefits to all parties

Bridget Fleming served four terms on the Suffolk County Legislature, representing the Second Legislative District, which included the Towns of East Hampton, Southampton, Shelter Island, and parts of Brookhaven.

During her tenure she focused on environmental sustainability, supporting the clean energy industry, strengthening public infrastructure, including wastewater treatment and public transportation, and confronting Long Island’s deepening housing crisis, which is being felt most acutely by the next generation and seniors throughout the region.

Prior to her terms as Suffolk County Legislator, She also served as a criminal prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

She and her husband Bob have a son, Jai, who’s away at college. They live with their beloved springer spaniel, Dune, in their home of nearly a quarter century in Sag Harbor.