Ken Mehlman, former chairman of the Republican National Committee, has joined Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. as a managing director and head of global public affairs. He most recently served as a partner with law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, where KKR was among his clients.
PRESS RELEASE
Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. today announced that Kenneth B. Mehlman, noted counselor on national legislative and public affairs initiatives, will join the firm as Managing Director and Head of Global Public Affairs, a new position.
Mr. Mehlman will focus on constructive outreach to the numerous stakeholders of KKR and its portfolio companies around the world, including relationships with governments, third parties, and NGOs.
He is currently a Partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld with a bi- partisan practice in legislative and regulatory counseling. He previously served in high-level positions on Capitol Hill and the White House, including as Chairman of the Republican National Committee and Campaign Manager of President Bush's successful re-election campaign.
“We have been increasingly engaged with a wide range of constituents in recent years,” said KKR co-Founding Members Henry R. Kravis and George R. Roberts. “As we continue to communicate the public benefits of private equity, Ken is a wonderful addition to our executive team, allowing us to expand and institutionalize our outreach to key groups across our portfolio.
“Ken is known for his innovative approach to stakeholder issues and has been applauded by Republicans and Democrats alike for his integrity and professionalism. We believe his leadership of a strategic public affairs function for KKR is an important step in our firm's continuing evolution and growth and offers our firm a competitive advantage in the future.”
Mr. Mehlman, 41, received his B.A. from
About KKR
Established in 1976, KKR is a leading global alternative asset manager. The core of the Firm's franchise is sponsoring and managing funds that make private equity investments in North America, Europe, and