RICHMOND, VA—CRT/tanaka has hired Missy Neff Gould as a vice president and leader of the firm’s government relations group. Prior to joining CRT/tanaka, Gould served as a vice president for state government relations for McGuireWoods Consulting in Richmond.

“For two years, we have considered introducing lobbying capabilities and expanding our government relations expertise,” says Mark Raper, CRT/tanaka chairman and CEO, who cited Gould’s “policy expertise and in-depth knowledge of government relations.”

In addition to her consulting role, Gould served as assistant secretary of natural resources for former Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine.

Throughout her career, she has worked with public, private and nonprofit sectors and has expertise in a variety of policy areas, including energy, the environment, agriculture, healthcare and Virginia’s biennial budget.

Says Gould: “In today’s environment, businesses and organizations are increasingly looking for one-stop shopping for a variety of services, including public relations and government affairs.”