MARK FARNEN

Mark Farnen started his career 30 years ago in marketing, public relations and public affairs. He has counseled Fortune 100 companies, including Verizon Wireless and Wal-Mart, and managed state field operations and media for three national presidential campaigns. .

Former chief executive of the Hawthorn Foundation, a private organization of Missouri businesses involved in promoting trade and economic development on a global level, Farnen partnered with the Governor of Missouri and Missouri Department of Economic Development on trade delegations to China, England, Canada, Mexico and countries of South America. He served as Director of Economic Development for the City of Mexico and was instrumental in attracting new business and diversifying the local economy. As a partner in Strategists LLC, he has successfully represented clients before city councils and county commissions and in negotiations with local stakeholders.