Leslie R. Katz

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

Leslie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice, both from the public and private sectors. As an energy company executive, she handled the regulatory issues of a Fortune 200 energy company, initiating a corporate venture fund focused on grid connectivity and renewable energy. She later served as Vice President of Public Policy for an environmental commodities exchange focused on cap and trade. She has represented a renewable energy finance company as well as has been the U.S. smart grid head of the Joint U.S. China Clean Energy NGO.

Additionally, she has served as a public official in both an elected and appointed capacity, including two terms on the San Francisco Port Commission, and serving as Commission President. She was a citywide elected member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, serving on and chairing various committees. As a Board Member, Leslie drafted and helped pass significant legislation related to technology, the environment, economic development, labor and human rights, including the landmark Equal Benefits Ordinance.

Her public service has enabled her to develop a keen understanding of the relationships between the public and private sectors, the ability to create and build strategic alliances across a range of groups and the capacity to navigate the complexities inherent in the relationships between communities and the corporate and political arenas. She has successfully served as a bridge in building relationships amongst varied stakeholders. Leslie leverages her relationships and understanding of the regulatory, legal and political landscapes to maximize successful outcomes for all stakeholders.

Prior to joining Practus, Leslie was a Shareholder at Greenberg Traurig, a global law firm, and thereafter a member of Clark Hill focusing on legislative and regulatory advocacy and government and regulatory affairs. She was founder and chair of the firm’s Blockchain and Digital Currency Task Force. She continues to be a frequent speaker on various topics related to leadership, emerging technology, and the law.

REPRESENTATIVE MATTERS

• Leslie has a long history of working relationships with California’s constitutional officers as well as with numerous other state and federal legislators. 
• Leslie has served as the regional vice president of regulatory affairs for a Fortune 250 energy-services company and held executive roles with technology companies. 
• She was involved in the Pacific Carbon Exchange’s inception and held the role of executive vice president of policy. 
• Leslie has represented Fortune 250 companies, communications companies, emerging technology firms, governmental entities, and small businesses.