BIOGRAPHY SUMMARY

Civic leader/lawyer/executive with extensive experience in finding creative solutions to problems of clients, civic organizations and charitable non-profits. Recognized for being able to positively impact public policy decisions in Texas and local communities. Credited with having started the leading public policy initiative for the technology economy in Texas. Demonstrated ability to encourage and motivate others; to innovate and lead new activities; and to transform and renew old enterprises. Proven track record in assisting enterprises to achieve success at global, regional and community levels. Participated in numerous efforts that resulted in corporate relocations and expansions to Austin. Advised and counseled executives and faculty in building technology infrastructure. Chosen to chair significant community and charitable non-profit boards in Dallas and Austin. A frequent teacher and lecturer, mentor, and coach. A proven commitment to cultural diversity. Excellent communication skills.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Ron Kessler Group LLC 2003 – Present
Austin
Principal
In the face of a leadership crisis in our economy, the RonKesslerGroup provides a portfolio of solutions built upon processes that are value-based and value-added. We address immediate needs while constructing long-term solutions that create and enhance the value of people and organizations. By focusing on the direct link between value-based leadership and profitability, we help our clients to maximize performance within the safe harbor of an organization’s core values and principles that are legal, moral and ethical. Principally, we offer the following services: Executive and leadership coaching; Legislative and public policy consulting; Entrepreneurial and regional economic development collaboration. We offer our services through custom-built teams, drawing from the wealth of talented and experienced leaders to deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Locke Liddell & Sapp LLP 1995 – 2002
Austin
Partner
Primary practice was representing corporate interests before the Texas Legislature and various regulatory and administrative agencies. Diverse client base with leadership in technology and tort reform areas of the law. Responsible for leading teams that brought about tax policy changes significantly benefiting wafer fab production, technology startups and Internet companies. Helped found and provide leadership (including leading teams) for the primary tort reform organization in Texas resulting in enhanced business climate and insurance reductions to doing business in Texas. Other major responsibilities were to help other lawyers build their practices and develop clients for the Firm. Developed and led law teams focused on clients in the technology economy and the state capitol practice area.

Jones Day Reavis & Pogue 1981 – 1994
Austin
Partner
Developed a state capitol practice for the firm. Assisted in developing a strong Texas client base and international opportunities, primarily in Mexico. Planned, strategized and implemented the firm’s Austin office in 1984. Partner-in-Charge of Austin office from 1986-1994. Built a strong legal services firm at the early stage of Austin’s technology economy.

Meyers, Miller, Middleton Weiner & Warren 1978 – 1980
Dallas
Partner

Feather, Kessler & Douglas 1974 – 1978
Dallas
Partner

EDUCATION

L.L.B., Southern Methodist University
B. A., University of Kansas

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Member, State Bar of Texas
Board of Trustees, Center for American and International Law
Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation

CIVIC AND PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES

President-elect, Austin Area Research Organization
Steering Committee, Champion Austin
Past Chairman, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors, Texas Council – American Electronics Association (AeA)
Advisory Board of Directors, IC2 Institute
Advisory Board, Frost Bank (Austin)
Board of Directors, Nature Conservancy of Texas
Advisory Council, University of Texas College of Fine Arts
Board of Directors, Texas Civil Justice League
Past Chairman, Austin Metropolitan Ministries
Board of Directors, Rites of Passage Development, Inc.
Adjunct Professor, Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest
Faculty, UT Continuing Education Program (Fund Raising Management Program)
Consultant, John Ben Shepperd Leadership Institute
Past Chair, Dallas Legal Services Foundation, Inc.
Past Chair, Dallas Assembly
Past Chair, Dallas Shakespeare Festival
Former Peace Corps Volunteer (Venezuela)