RICHMOND, Va., Dec. 16, 2025 — Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, the bipartisan government relations and communications affiliate of international law firm Cozen O’Connor, today announced the addition of Martin K. Johnson as principal in its Richmond office.
“Martin is a highly respected professional with deep relationships across Virginia’s political and business communities,” said Howard Schweitzer, CEO of Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies. “His extensive experience and strategic insight will strengthen our team and enhance the value we deliver to clients throughout the Commonwealth.”
Johnson brings nearly 25 years of experience in government relations, lobbying, and business development. In his new role, Johnson will support the firm’s growing Virginia practice and strengthen its ability to serve clients across Virginia and beyond.
“I’m excited to join this exceptional team and contribute from day one,” Johnson said. “It’s a historic, exciting time to be engaged in Virginia and I look forward to helping our clients navigate the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.”
Johnson most recently served as chief external affairs officer for the Virginia Association of REALTORS®, Virginia’s largest trade association, where he led government relations, research, and industry engagement. During his tenure, he also served as interim CEO and chief lobbyist, guiding legislative strategy and political engagement for more than 34,000 members.
Previously, Johnson was managing partner at FutureLaw, LLC, a boutique government affairs firm in Richmond, where he represented clients in sectors including housing, technology, and pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career, he held staff positions with former Gov. Jim Gilmore and then-state Sen. Bill Mims. He has also served in a variety of political advisory positions, including in three gubernatorial transition workgroups.
He currently serves on the Virginia Housing Commission as a gubernatorial appointee, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the Richard Bland College Foundation Board of Directors. Johnson earned his Bachelor of Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University.
“Martin’s proven ability to navigate complex policy environments and build consensus will be a tremendous asset to our clients,” Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies Member Jerry Kilgore said. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the firm.”
About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies
Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. The firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management and strategic communications. Its client base spans multiple industries, including health care, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.
About Cozen O’Connor
Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 925 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 33 offices across two continents.
Media Contact
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