The principal and founder of Merc Strategy Group, LLC, Curt Mercadante is a seasoned strategic communications and public affairs professional who has directed a variety of projects spanning the fields of corporate communications, advocacy and politics.

Curt previously served as director of political and state affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), one of the nation’s largest business advocacy organizations. At ILR, Mercadante helped direct public and voter education campaigns in targeted states throughout the country.

Curt served on Capitol Hill, working as communications director for U.S. Representatives Greg Ganske (R-IA) and Tim Murphy (R-PA).  He also directed strategic communications for the Corn Refiners Association, a major Washington, DC-based agribusiness association.

Curt also worked as an executive with L.C. Williams and Associates, a leading Chicago public affairs firm, where he worked on a number of clients in the energy, financial services and government sectors. His team directed the communications program that supported the City of Chicago’s $200 million “Revive Wacker Drive” reconstruction project. Their efforts garnered numerous awards, including the Platinum Award and Golden Trumpet Award (Publicity Club of Chicago); the Silver Quill Award (International Association of Business Communicators); and, the Skyline Award (Public Relations Society of America/Chicago chapter).

Curt has also worked on a number of political campaigns at the local, state and national levels. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Iowa.

A member of the Public Relations Society of America, Curt resides in the Chicago area with his wife, Julie, and two children, Anna and Dominic.