The Apex Group has an excellent reputation as a solid, well respected government affairs / lobbying firm working with the Governor, California Legislature and State Regulators. Our founding partner, Paul Gladfelty, has been in the lobbying / government affairs and procurement field for over 35 years. He brings a wealth of experience on issues involving finance and short-term lending. Felipe Fuentes is our newest partner, having joined the firm in September, 2016. Prior to joining The Apex Group, his most recent position was as a Los Angeles City Councilman for the 7th District. He also served in the Assembly for a full term and was the Chair of the powerful Assembly Appropriations Committee, Revenue and Taxation Committee and Utilities and Commerce Committee. State budgets and procurement contracts are an area in which The Apex Group has a significant amount of experience and expertise. Many of these contracts and RFPs have involved informational technology (IT) projects. With our experience, we can assist our clients in avoiding pitfalls of the contracting process. Historically, California has not had a record of success with IT related contracts. In addition to the advocates, The Apex Group employs an in-house FPPC specialist to assist clients with regulatory compliance, a full complement of staff to provide additional support to assist with servicing requests from our clients.