Goettle to head up Odney's newly-formed public affairs department Posted on 4/18/2012
Shane Goettle, former North Dakota Dept. of Commerce commissioner, will head up Odney's newly-formed public affairs department.
As the public affairs director, Goettle will merge Odney's new capabilities in government relations with its proven grassroots, media relations, campaign and public relations services to create North Dakota's premier full service public affairs organization.
"Shane's impressive career in state and federal government and the private sector combined with his legal background make him a natural fit to head up our public affairs department," said Pat Finken, president of Odney. "In addition to his work experience, Shane has great insight into the political landscape and issues throughout the state."
"I am thrilled to join the Odney family," said Goettle. "Odney's impressive track record in effective communications and issue management makes this an excellent opportunity for me to move into the government affairs arena and take advantage of the relationships and skills I have developed over the last 20 years."
Finken stated that government relations is in high demand and clients will benefit due to Odney's range of services. "Odney has provided grassroots and public relations services to our clients since 1990, so it's a natural progression to add lobbying to our portfolio of services. In addition, our clients can take advantage of the ‘one-stop-shop' aspect of having all of their marketing, public relations and government relations needs met under one roof."
Goettle, a native of Donnybrook, most recently was a candidate for U.S. Congress. Prior to that, he was the state director for U.S. Senator John Hoeven. Goettle also served as the Commissioner of the North Dakota Dept. of Commerce, where he oversaw the agency that is responsible for economic development, tourism, community services and workforce programs. During his tenure at the Dept. of Commerce, Goettle chaired the Governor's State Energy Policy Commission and led an initiative to develop a $1 billion infrastructure investment in the state's oil and gas counties.
Before Goettle's time at the Dept. of Commerce, he held several positions in Washington, D.C., including chief of staff to the Under Secretary at the USDA. Goettle is a graduate of NDSU and received his law degree from Hamline University.
