Ivan Lanier

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Ivan Lanier

CEO, Greenwill Consulting Group

Before Ivan Lanier founded the Greenwill Consulting Group in 2002, he had a 20-year career as a police officer in Prince George’s County. The retired sergeant performed many roles, including commander of the department’s basic training division and master firearms instructor.

Lanier has built Greenwill into one of the top government relations firms in Annapolis and represents many Fortune 500 companies while specializing in energy, health care, telecommunications, property and medical cannabis.

What is the most valuable habit you have developed?

Work harder than everyone else. It can seem effortless, but it’s the result of building relationships, mastering issues and working in the trenches. You need to be creative to communicate with government officials. When I am in the Senate or House buildings, I use the stairs to engage in conversations while people are moving.

What is the most difficult lesson you have learned?

Keep your eye on your legislation to the end of session. More than once, I have been assured a client’s legislation would go through. Needless to say, that’s normally the bill that stalls at the end of session and then I have to try to revive it at the last second. Be strategic and have a backup plan in case of last-minute obstacles.

What is the biggest challenge facing government leaders in Maryland?

Finding middle ground between political parties. Government has changed; there is a new awakening. People expect transparency and hold elected officials accountable. Government must provide solutions for all Americans. I am successful by bringing together a bipartisan network that strives for a common goal.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's Power Government & Lobbyist list for 2023. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at thedailyrecord.com>.