Michigan LCV names new state government affairs director

Ben Poulson to lead Michigan LCV’s legislative advocacy in Lansing, Nick Occhipinti shifts to organization’s new policy initiative

LANSING – The Michigan League of Conservation Voters today announced staff changes within its state government affairs department that drives the organization’s legislative advocacy work in Lansing. 

Ben Poulson, the previous State Government Affairs Manager, has been promoted to State Government Affairs Director. Poulson replaces Nick Occhipinti who has led the League’s government affairs work for the past eight years.

Occhipinti will be moving into a new role as Senior Policy Director of the new Lakes & Pines Institute, an innovative policy and campaign engine inside the organization that will fuse research, legal expertise, and decision-maker education to move the needle on Michigan LCV’s priority issues. He will continue to be a core part of Michigan LCV’s government affairs work throughout this transition. 

“During his time here at Michigan LCV, Ben has demonstrated deep expertise and strategic prowess that has made him an asset for managing complex policy priorities and relationships in Lansing,” said Lisa Wozniak, executive director of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. “We are thrilled to elevate Ben into the important role of directing our organization’s legislative strategy to advocate for kitchen-table policies that protect our air, land, water and democracy while helping lower costs for Michigan families.” 

Before joining Michigan LCV Poulson served as Legislative Director for multiple Macomb County legislators. He also served as Director of Client Services at Truscott Rossman, where he led public relations and public affairs strategies across key clients. 

“I’m excited to continue Michigan LCV’s mission in Lansing working to pass policies that fuse together clean air, safe water, healthy Great Lakes and economic prosperity for Michigan communities,” said Poulson. “With so much uncertainty at the federal level, the work of our leaders in Lansing is more important than ever. I look forward to leading Michigan LCV’s legislative work in Lansing at this important moment while working with lawmakers on all sides of the political spectrum to deliver wins for our environment, our democracy and our pocketbooks.”