WASHINGTON — Longtime political strategist Ashley Etienne, who was most recently with the Biden administration, has joined The Weber Shandwick Collective’s Powell Tate as a senior advisor.

Etienne will be based in the public affairs operation’s Washington office, where she will work with clients across the firm’s public affairs, crisis and issues management, corporate, social impact, and diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

Over the last 12 or so years, Etienne has advised and shaped communications for some of Washington’s top Democratic officials, including two presidents.

She most recently served as deputy assistant to President Joe Biden and communications director for Vice President Kamala Harris.

Previously, Etienne served as communications director and senior advisor to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, becoming the first woman and person of color to hold those positions. She also served as a special assistance to former President Barack Obama.

“Ashley’s a brilliant communicator and strategist, who thrives when the stakes are the highest, and who understands the intersection of reputation, policy and social change,” said Powell Tate President Paul Massey. “Her knowledge of Congress and the White House, deep relationships with the media and mastery of crisis communications will be invaluable to clients, especially as we partner with trusted brands to navigate new disruptions and shifts in culture and society.