Former GOP appropriations staffer moves to Podesta Group

A former top Republican appropriations staffer has found a new home on K Street.

Jim Dyer will start with the Podesta Group on Monday as senior strategist, the firm announced Thursday. Dyer will leave Clark & Weinstock, where he heads the appropriations practice.

"It’s expanded responsibility … and expanded opportunity," Dyer told The Hill of the job switch. "While I’m an older guy, I’m not that old, and I’m still looking forward to new challenges."

The significant Republican addition reflects the Podesta Group's efforts over the last year to burnish its bipartisan credentials. The firm has been known for its ties to Democrats, but has hired a number of Republican staffers this year.

Dyer previously worked for the House Appropriations Committee as staff director and clerk for 10 years. Before that, he worked on the committee’s subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations and on the subcommittee on the Legislative Branch.

Former appropriations staffers are highly coveted hires due to their insider knowledge of the committee that manages congressional spending bills. 

“Effectively navigating the maze of complexities that is the appropriations and budget process has become more important than ever,” Podesta Chief Executive Officer Kimberley Fritts said in a statement. “No one understands this process better than Jim.”

Dyer’s resume also includes stints working under presidents George H.W. Bush and Reagan as deputy assistant for legislative affairs. He also managed defense, foreign policy and appropriations work for Reagan.

“Washington’s decision-makers look to [Jim] as a leader and premier analyst of legislative issues,” Fritts said in the release. “He is a huge catch — and we’re tremendously thrilled to have caught him."

Updated at 4:33 p.m.

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