WASHINGTON — SKDK partner Doug Thornell will assume leadership of the firm at the end of the year, succeeding CEO Josh Isay, who will move into a senior counsel role.

Thornell will oversee the day-to-day operations of the political consulting and public affairs firm, working alongside partners Bill Knapp, Kerri Lyon, Mike Morey, and Jill Zuckman. He will continue to advise the firm’s political, corporate, and non-profit clients as well.

Thornell currently oversees SKDK’s paid media and political consulting practice. He joined the firm 12 years ago as a senior VP and has been a partner since 2020.

“Doug Thornell is a brilliant communications professional who combines a deep understanding of our business with exceptional motivational and leadership skills,” Isay said. “Doug has been an insightful and thoughtful adviser and confidante to me for over a decade and I know that SKDK is in great hands with him and all of SKDK’s partners — Bill, Kerri, Mike, and Jill. While I am proud of so much that SKDK has accomplished — from political victories to our corporate and philanthropic work — I consider the diverse and inclusive company that we have built together to be our greatest achievement and our most long-lasting legacy.”

Isay has been part of SKDK’s leadership team for 20 years, serving as a managing director before being named CEO in 2020. During that time, the firm has grown to approximately 215 employees with $90 million in annual revenue. SKDK is part of the Stagwell Group.