Sachs Media Group today announced exciting changes in the public affairs division with the promotion of Herbie Thiele to Vice President/Director of Public Affairs. Thiele will manage the firm’s diverse range of political and issue-management clients, succeeding veteran communicator Ryan Banfill as head of the public affairs division.

“This is an exciting time for Sachs Media Group and we are looking forward to our dynamic colleague and friend Herbie taking the reins of our powerhouse public affairs team,” said Ron Sachs, President and CEO of Sachs Media Group. “Herbie and the rest of our team have a deep understanding of what it takes to win in the halls of power, and we are excited about the opportunities that this next step holds.”

Banfill, with the firm’s support and encouragement, is opening his own public affairs practice, providing consulting services for political campaigns, policy issues and government relations. Banfill started with the firm more than a decade ago after he served as staff director for the Florida Senate Democrats.

“Ryan embraces the smart, strong and strategic work ethic that makes communications tactics successful, and we are enthusiastic about helping him take this next step,” Sachs added. “We look forward to having a continued partnership with him for many years to come.”

Since joining the firm in early 2009, Thiele has worked with local, state and national clients to develop strategic messaging and tactics, engage target audiences, and achieve outstanding results. Thiele is an experienced communicator with an extensive network of contacts and unmatched person-to-person skills that help the firm achieve client objectives.

Along with the promotion of Thiele, Drew Piers is being promoted to Deputy Director of Public Affairs. Piers has been with the firm for more than three years and brings an expertise in local and statewide campaigns.