Overview
Benesch’s accomplished Government Relations team has deep experience guiding clients through every stage of government procurement. From identifying opportunities and preparing proposals to building relationships with key decision-makers, we help our clients position themselves for success. We understand the importance of strategic planning, timely execution and strict adherence to procurement laws and regulations.
Whether you are seeking your first government contract or looking to expand your existing portfolio, our team can help make the needed introductions, develop the right strategy and advocate for contract awards. We are committed to helping clients not only compete for, but also win, government contracts, while maintaining the highest standards of compliance and integrity.
Representative Experience
Created the Women’s Business Enterprise Program in Ohio
to improve government contracting opportunities for women-owned business.
Positioned a client to win a million-dollar contract
to assist the state with the Medical Marijuana Control Program.
Won a multimillion-dollar, multiyear local government contract for a client.
Successfully advocated on behalf of sports facility management company
chosen by state university to manage its arena.
Successfully lobbied for $500,000 included for a statewide disparity study
to gather data to help inform future policy initiatives impacting women, minority and veteran-owned businesses and state contracts.
Working through the newly created Ohio Women’s Coalition
to identify any contracting disparities and increase opportunities for women businesses.
Developed and implemented government relations strategy for internet service provider client
leading to the award of state and local contracts totaling $4 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding.
Key Contacts

Robert A. Zimmerman
Chair, Government Relations Practice Group; Partner, Litigation Practice Group Cleveland rzimmerman@beneschlaw.com
N. Victor Goodman
Retired Partner Columbus nvgoodman@beneschlaw.com
Juan Morado Jr.
Co-Chair, Inclusion & Opportunity Committee Chicago jmorado@beneschlaw.com
Martha J. Sweterlitsch
Partner Columbus msweterlitsch@beneschlaw.com
Rachel Winder
Government Relations Manager Columbus rwinder@beneschlaw.com
Cheryl Burchard
Government Relations Assistant Columbus cburchard@beneschlaw.com