Julia is practiced in leading a gubernatorial legislative team with extensive experience identifying emerging issues, developing and implementing high-level policy initiatives, and securing passage of a variety of measures and key reforms before the Virginia General Assembly.
Julia served as the director of legislative affairs and policy to Governor Robert F. McDonnell from 2011-2013. Julia led the McDonnell administration’s legislative strategy, developed the governor’s policy agenda, and worked with members of the Virginia General Assembly to advance the governor’s priorities. She was pivotal to the success of the governor’s agendas, directing the administration’s outreach to the General Assembly and stakeholder groups.
Julia has a strong background in the legislative development process, creating the state budget, and executive branch agency functions. Prior to joining the administration, Julia was state director for National Federation of Independent Business in Virginia. She previously served as director of government relations for the Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association, she served in the Office of Attorney General Jerry Kilgore, and as a legislative aide to Delegate David Albo.
Prior to joining Cozen O’Connor, Julia served as a senior manager of government affairs in the Richmond office of a national law firm. Julia earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Mary Washington.