Gerstman PLLC, a New York-based government relations, lobbying, and regulatory advocacy firm, has joined Anderson Kill to create and build the firm’s Government Relations practice, focused on advising clients navigating complex governmental, political, regulatory, and public policy matters throughout New York City and New York State.

Widely recognized for his strategic approach to government relations, regulatory problem solving, and political advocacy, Brad Gerstman, founder and managing partner of Gerstman PLLC, joins Anderson Kill as Chair of Government Relations. Over the course of his career, Gerstman has represented businesses, developers, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and investors in high-stakes matters involving government agencies, regulatory challenges, public policy initiatives, and politically sensitive business issues throughout New York.

Joining Gerstman at Anderson Kill are key members of his team, including:

• Nicole Epstein Schwartz, joining as Shareholder. Responsible for spearheading advocacy initiatives of all sizes, Nicole advises clients on matters including land use, zoning, construction, department of building matters, education, transportation, health care, and agency law. She has been named as one of the most powerful people in Public Relations in City & State’s PR Power list and serves as Chairwoman of the Government Relations Committee for the Nassau County Bar Association.
• Rick Chandler, former Commissioner of the New York City Department of Buildings, serving as Special Advisor to the group. A licensed professional engineer, Rich assists developers, contractors, architects, and property owners in navigating New York City’s complex regulatory landscape, resolving project delays, and engaging key stakeholders and agencies to move construction projects forward. Chandler served as NYC DOB Commissioner from 2014 to 2019, where he modernized agency operations, launched DOB NOW, and streamlined development processes citywide.
• Oliver Graf, joining as Government Relations Manager. Formerly an associate at Gerstman, Oliver has also worked for Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand, conducted research at a political risk and public affairs consultancy group, and worked at The McCain Institute in Washington D.C.,