Mark brings to the PLA team of accomplished professionals the perfect combination of government affairs experience from both within and outside the New York State Legislature. For over a decade, Mark held the title of Chief of Staff for the Buffalo office of the former Assembly Majority Leader Paul Tokasz. In this position, Mark gained critical insight and expertise on the issues confronting Western New York and how to successfully navigate the maze of state government. Immediately prior to joining PLA, Mark served as the Local Government Affairs Manager for National Grid, the second largest utility company in the US. In this capacity, Mark acted as the chief liaison with federal, state and local elected officials in Western New York. Drawing upon his extensive background in state government, he was an effective advocate for National Grid's goals and objectives. A native of Western New York, Mark earned his Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University at Buffalo. Mark's portfolio of experience, combined with the relationships he has forged with key leaders both in the legislative and business worlds, brings added value to the table for all of PLA's clients.