AWEA: Capitol Hill veteran Jim Reilly to take helm of federal legislative affairs for wind energy industry

James D. Reilly, a proven legislative leader and strategist with a track record of working on both sides of the aisle to pass legislation in Congress, has accepted the position of Senior Vice President for Federal Legislative Affairs for the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).

“Jim will be an outstanding leader for AWEA on Capitol Hill,” said Tom Kiernan, CEO of AWEA, in making the announcement. “He has worked effectively with both parties and various stakeholders to craft and drive workable public policies. Jim is a strategic thinker with a pragmatic approach to short and long-range challenges.  He is committed to progress on energy and environmental issues as well as business growth, and we are delighted to have him joining us at this critical juncture for American wind power.”

Reilly began his career in marine policy, and first worked for Sen. Carper as Finance Director on his successful 2000 campaign, raising political contributions and support needed for the former Governor to unseat a five-term Senate incumbent by a 12-point margin.

Reilly then served as Carper’s Legislative Assistant for environment, energy, agriculture, and related appropriations matters, before serving as the Senior Energy and Environment Advisor at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C. In that capacity he designed and implemented strategies for political engagement between the U.S. and Britain, the G8 and European Union, and the private sector.

He returned to Carper’s office in 2007, as Chief of Staff. He has facilitated bipartisan and other partnerships to achieve the Senator’s objectives related to committee assignments on Finance, Environment and Public Works, and Homeland Security and Government Affairs.

"Jim has been a trusted advisor to me for over a decade and a thoughtful leader of my staff during some exciting and challenging times in Washington D.C.,” said Sen. Carper on the announcement of Reilly’s move to AWEA. “One key to my success is to surround myself with smart, talented people who know how to get things done, and Jim is one of those. His perspective, intelligence, and ability to build consensus has been a significant part of my ability to accomplish things in the Senate. I will miss having him on my team but I wish Jim and his family all the best as he starts this new chapter.”

Reilly holds a Master of Environmental Management from Duke University, and a Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Delaware.