Faegre Drinker Welcomes Agribusiness Leader Jake Hamlin as Senior Director, Strengthens Advocacy Practice in Des Moines

Faegre Drinker announced today Jake Hamlin has joined the firm’s government and regulatory practice as senior director in Des Moines, strengthening the firm’s agribusiness and state government relations and advocacy practice in Iowa. Prior to joining the firm, Hamlin served as the director of state government affairs for CHS, a global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States.

Well-versed in multi-state initiatives and local issues, Hamlin brings 20 years of experience in corporate and customer advocacy on behalf of private, public, family-owned and employee-owned companies. Hamlin serves clients across several industries, including agriculture, food, energy, manufacturing and transportation by partnering with state and federal leaders to shape public policy and regulatory interests.

“Jake’s experience in helping clients with both long-term initiatives and nuts-and-bolts policy issues will be a great addition to the firm’s advocacy and consulting practice,” said Scott Chinn, leader of the firm’s government and regulatory group. “I’m excited to bring Jake aboard as Faegre Drinker continues to prioritize connecting clients with results-oriented consultants and attorneys.”

Hamlin leverages relationships with government and regulatory officials, including legislators, at the state and federal level to provide meaningful answers to issues facing clients. Hamlin has significant experience influencing state trade association public policy committees, ranging from agriculture, energy, fuels, tax and transportation, and has led teams in the management of state lobbying contracts, national and state trade associations, annual lobbying plans, and capital project incentives.

“Jake’s arrival signifies Faegre Drinker’s prioritization of serving our food and agribusiness clients,” said Des Moines partner Andrew Anderson. “Jake has significant consulting acumen in these critical sectors, and he will be an important asset for clients looking to make an impact with legislative and executive leaders at the Iowa Statehouse.” Hamlin earned his bachelor’s in political science from St. Olaf College and his master of public administration from Hamline University.