Juan Melli has been promoted to partner at Mercury Public Affairs, the firm announced Monday.
Melli joined Mercury’s New Jersey office in 2018, where he focuses on solving complex challenges at the intersection of policy, politics, and media.
He advises organizations ranging from mission-driven nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies on public affairs strategy, government relations, public relations, message development, digital media and crisis communications.
Mercury Partner Michael Soliman, who leads the New Jersey office, was thrilled to make the announcement.
“Juan’s extensive experience in New Jersey government and media has been key to helping our clients solve complex problems,” he said. “I’m proud of the work we’ve been able to do together and thrilled to now call him a Partner.”
Before joining Mercury, Melli held senior communications and political roles across government, campaigns, and media. He served as communications manager for the City of Hoboken and was a trusted advisor to the mayor.
His campaign work included roles as digital director for a U.S. Senate campaign, senior communications advisor on a U.S. House campaign, director of new media for a gubernatorial campaign, and advisor on a mayoral campaign. He was also an associate editor and columnist for PolitickerNJ.com and founded one of New Jersey’s early political news and analysis websites.
Mercury is a leading national bipartisan public affairs firm with offices across the country. Melli said he was proud to be part of the team.
“Mercury has built an exceptional team of public affairs professionals who help clients navigate complex challenges and achieve meaningful results,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of that work and look forward to continuing to grow our impact in New Jersey.”
He has been recognized by BINJE as one of New Jersey’s Best Hispanic Business Leaders and was named to Insider NJ’s inaugural Puentes de Impacto, or Bridges of Impact, list of Latino leaders.
Mercury Partners Mo Butler and Randy Minniear also applauded the announcement.
“Juan knows how critical decisions are made, and his sharp instincts have helped us continue to set the standard for public affairs in New Jersey,” Butler said. “I have enjoyed working with him and am thrilled to continue to do so with his promotion to Partner.”
Minnier agreed.
“Juan’s deep experience building strategies for major decision-makers makes us stronger as a team, and I am glad to continue working alongside him as Partner,” he said.
Melli serves on the gubernatorially appointed inaugural board of the New Jersey State Parks and Open Space Foundation. He is also active in several nonprofit organizations, serving as President of Team Wilderness, Vice President of the Hoboken Community Center, and a board member of the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference.
Melli earned a Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University and a B.S. from Rutgers University.
