Sussex Strategy Group Inc. (Sussex) is pleased to announce that Chris Benedetti and Jamie Besner, two of Canada’s leading public affairs practitioners, have acquired full ownership of the firm. This follows 23 years of success of the partners, including outgoing principals Paul Pellegrini, Joseph Ragusa, and Brett James, in building one of Canada’s strongest and foremost public affairs and business advisory firms.
Paul, Joe, and Brett will continue to work with and support the firm and its clients in the coming months and beyond, with Paul assuming the role of Executive Chairman and Brett and Joe serving as Senior Counsel. Transitioning full ownership to Chris and Jamie ensures that our clients will continue to receive the exceptional service and expertise they have come to expect from the company and our superior team of professionals.
“After founding Sussex more than two decades ago, I believe that transitioning ownership to Chris and Jamie is exactly what Sussex needs to build on its success for decades to come. I personally look forward to supporting both of them and the company in my new role as Executive Chairman,” said Paul Pellegrini, Founder and former President.
“I joined Sussex in 2004 and I have the same passion, energy, and drive for the company and the work we do for our clients today as I did on day one,” said Chris Benedetti, Principal. “This is an exciting time for our firm, our clients, and our team, and I know we will continue providing the strategic counsel and results that are a cornerstone of Sussex’s service offering.”
“Chris and I are honoured that Paul, Joe, and Brett have entrusted us to protect and grow the Sussex brand,” added Jamie Besner, Principal. “Over the last 15 years as five partners, we have built a team that is the strongest in the business, full of ideas and energy, and ready to support our clients and our firm. Key for me is working with our team as we chart the next steps for both Sussex and their own personal growth.”
“Since we started the firm in 1998, I have worked hard to help Sussex grow from humble beginnings into a company of over 30 exceptional professionals today who are serving clients from around the globe,” said Joseph Ragusa, founding partner and former Principal. “Over the years, more than 1,000 clients have chosen Sussex. I have full confidence that Sussex will not only endure but continue to thrive with Jamie and Chris at the helm.”
“Sussex continues to experience significant growth and success in delivering results for clients and win national and international recognition for our work, including 2020 Best International Firm from Campaigns and Elections Magazine in the U.S.,” added Brett James, former principal. “This great team will take the company to new heights, and I look forward to helping them get there.”
Sussex Strategy Group is one of Canada’s leading public affairs, business advisory and digital advocacy firms. With professionals located in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver and a network of expert affiliates in major centres across the country, Sussex excels at helping its clients manage public opinion about them and their issues, and advance their interests with decision-makers at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels of government, and in the media.
