Public affairs firm MBI announced the promotion of Michele Jaker to equity partner. Jaker joined MBI in late 2018 from Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, where she served as director of government affairs.

“Through hard work, quality client service and demonstrating her ability to attract and retain clients, Michele Jaker has earned this promotion and we welcome her as an equity partner at MBI,” said Raul “Rudy” Garcia, president, MBI. “Since joining, Michele has proven her ability to develop and maintain very strong relationships with lawmakers across the state as well as the executive branch of government. We welcome Michele as an equity partner at MBI and look forward to a long and prosperous relationship.”

Jaker came to the firm with an extensive background in health care, insurance, human services and women’s issues. Prior to Horizon BCBSNJ, Jaker served as the government relations director for Amerigroup in New Jersey (Anthem Inc.) and was the chair of the Legislative Committee for the New Jersey Association of Health Plans.

Earlier in her career, Jaker founded a public affairs, lobbying and communications firm and served as the executive director of both the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of New Jersey and the Family Planning Association of New Jersey. Jaker got her start in New Jersey government as the chief of staff to Sen. Joseph Vitale (D-Woodbridge).

“I am humbled by the vote of confidence from the equity partners at MBI and appreciate the support of my friends and clients,” Jaker stated. “Since joining MBI back in 2018, I have appreciated our client-centered approach and our commitment to building a strong team with diverse relationships. I am proud to be a part of that and look forward to the future.”

Jaker serves on the board of directors for Garden State Equality and was a member of the advisory board of the New Leaders Council – New Jersey chapter. She has served as vice chair of the Woodbridge Democratic Committee and was a founding co-chair of Emerge New Jersey, a training program for Democratic women candidates.