Chris has been a trusted adviser and innovative consultant to Nevada political and business leaders for more than two decades. Serving under Governor Kenny C. Guinn at a young age in the role Director of Board and Commission Appointments, he built strong bi-partisan relationships and a reputation as an honest, trustworthy and effective partner.
Chris has handled award-winning issue campaigns on behalf of numerous industries, and has successfully represented clients on some of the most challenging issues in Nevada’s political history at the local, state and federal levels. Known for his work ethic, creativity, and strategy, Chris is recognized nationally for his expertise and ability to achieve client objectives.
Brian leads lobbying operations and client management at Ferrari Reeder Public Affairs. His command of the legislative/regulatory process, issue monitoring, communications and campaign strategy is key to identifying and avoiding pitfalls on our clients’ road to success. His broad policy expertise includes construction, K-12 and higher education, behavioral health, information technology, finance and general business/employment.
Brian joined Ferrari Reeder after serving as the in-house lobbyist with the Nevada Chapter Associated General Contractors. With AGC, Brian successfully represented the Northern Nevada construction industry at the state and local level on many issues, including securing dollars for public works infrastructure, bringing fairness to state contractor retention policies and successfully advocating for construction trades to be taught in high school.
Brian’s first job in politics was with Grassroots Campaigns, Inc. where he led fundraising efforts for the San Francisco office, eventually raising more money than any office nationwide. He also spent time as a radio news reporter in Sonoma County covering local politics, later accepting an opportunity to work with national media outlets as the Communications Director of an IT trade association in the Bay Area.
Brian graduated from the University of Nevada Reno with a bachelor’s in Journalism and minor in political science. He enjoys biking, hiking, classic cars, and anything related to sports. He lives in Reno with his wife Ellie, their two daughters and their dogs.
As Vice President, Jimmy guides clients through complex legislative and regulatory challenges in a wide range of policy areas. His strong command of the policy process, technical aspects of policy development, and strategy make him an invaluable member of the Ferrari Reeder team. During his career, Jimmy has worked on some of the most high-profile and complex lobbying efforts in Carson City in the areas of health care, pharmaceuticals, technology, education, and finance, just to name a few.
Jimmy is a lifelong Nevadan, born and raised in Las Vegas and spent seven years in Northern Nevada. He joined the Ferrari Reeder team in 2019 after attending the University of Nevada, Reno where he received his bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and International Affairs. He is currently pursuing his Juris Doctor (JD) degree at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, William S. Boyd School of Law, while working full-time to represent the firm’s clients.
Jimmy developed an interest in politics and government at an early age, but his first experience in the legislative process was being appointed by former US Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid as a nonpartisan Senate Page during his junior year of high school. In his free time, Jimmy enjoys traveling and seeking out unique cultural and historical experiences as well as exploring the vast areas of the State of Nevada.
Jennifer Torres-Ferrari
Strategic Planning and Business Development
Jenn came to Reno from Eagle River, Alaska to attend the University of Nevada through the Western Undergraduate Exchange program. She graduated in 1998 with a degree in psychology and an emphasis in behavior analysis focused on behavioral therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder. Jenn finished her education living abroad in Spain, where she earned a minor in Spanish.
Following her undergraduate studies, Jenn went back to school to earn a K-8 teaching license and a Master’s degree in education.
After being selected as the outstanding student-teacher of the year by the staff at Agnes Risley Elementary School, she was hired on as a first grade teacher for 2001-2002 school year. Following a year at Risley, Jenn moved to Las Vegas where she was hired at the Las Vegas Day School to help open the Kinderschool and full-day kindergarten program. She was asked to head the kinder program curriculum and to serve as lead teacher, where she worked until returning to Reno in 2006.
Jenn currently works part-time as a substitute teacher in the Washoe County School District and participates in grant programs to help with students with standardized test preparation. She has also worked with the National Kidney Foundation in fundraising and public outreach.
Jenn provides strategic planning and business development for Ferrari Public Affairs, while also helping to manage company operations.
Donna Laffey
Senior Associate
Donna first joined Ferrari Reeder Public Affairs during the 79th session where she worked on tracking and researching important health care legislation. After this, she served for 5 years in the California Department of Health Care Services. During this time she focused on recovery endeavors for California’s Medicaid program and developed a strong knowledge of the laws and budget that govern it.
Donna has joined the Ferrari Reeder team once again and is excited to use her knowledge to advocate for our clients.
Donna graduated in 2017 from the University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor’s degree in Community Health Sciences and a minor in Political Science. During this time, served as Executive Vice President of Sigma Kappa Sorority and participated in multiple student organizations and clubs.
Donna lives in Reno with her husband Matthew, their son Dillon, and a house full of pets. Donna loves cooking for friends and family, watching football, and camping.