Former House Speaker Bill Howell Joins McGuireWoods Consulting

Bill Howell, 75, former Republican powerhouse for 15 years as Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, has joined Richmond’s McGuireWoods Consulting as a senior advisor, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch:

Former Virginia Speaker of the House William J. Howell, R-Stafford, has joined McGuireWoods Consulting — a lobbying, advocacy and public affairs powerhouse — in a non-lobbying capacity, according to the organization.

As a senior adviser, Howell will work to “help clients achieve business goals in statehouses nationwide,” according to McGuireWoods Consulting.

After 30 years in the House and his extensive list of contacts, it is not wonder Howell was tapped by McGuireWoods, as reflected in his profile on the firm’s website:

His practice includes multistate government relations and public affairs efforts where he assists clients in making contact with legislative and other leaders in multiple states. He also counsels clients on their government affairs strategies and helps identify new businesses and organizations who can benefit from the firm’s services.

Prior to joining McGuireWoods Consulting, Bill served as the Speaker of the House of Delegates from 2003 to 2018 making him one of the longest-serving Speakers in the history of the commonwealth. During his tenure as Speaker, Virginia posted 10 budget surpluses totaling $2.5 billion. Under his leadership the House of Delegates emphasized significant reforms in state government and strategic investments in higher education, economic development, and mental health services.  Other notable legislative achievements include a major transportation initiative passed with bipartisan support and state-funded incentives for land conservation.

Bill was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 1987 and represented his Stafford-based district for 30 years. Besides serving as speaker, he also co-chaired the House Committee on Courts in 2000 and became its sole chairman in 2002.

In addition to his public service, Bill is also an attorney specializing in trust and estate law. He and his wife, Cessie, have been married for 52 years.