Two well-known communications and public affairs firms announced Monday they are merging and will make Hartford their headquarters.
Intersect Public Solutions and McDowell Communications Group are combining and will operate as Intersect Public Solutions.
The firm will have seven employees and establish its headquarters in downtown Hartford’s State House Square office tower.
McDowell Communications Group was founded in 2006 by Duby McDowell, a former Connecticut TV political reporter who has been in the media strategy and executive communications business for nearly two decades.
Founded in 2019 by Brian Durand and Michael Mandell, Intersect Public Solutions is a full-service public affairs consultancy, specializing in strategic planning, communications, grassroots advocacy and digital media.
Prior to forming Intersect, Durand served as chief of staff to former Gov. Dannel Malloy, and Mandell was executive director of the Connecticut Democratic Party.
The newly combined firm said it will serve corporate, nonprofit, trade association and municipal clients in Connecticut and across the country.
As part of the transition, The Laurel — McDowell Communications Group’s online publication covering Connecticut’s media landscape — will remain active and continue to provide insights into the state’s news industry.
“Joining forces with Intersect Public Solutions strengthens our ability to serve clients at the highest level while expanding the range of services we provide,” said McDowell. “We’re now bringing together two firms with deep Connecticut roots, a shared commitment to excellence, and a track record of delivering results. I’m excited about what we’ll accomplish together.”
Durand the two firms offer “distinct but complementary strengths,” that will help “clients navigate today’s fast-moving communications and policy landscape.”
