Q&A: Meet Strategic Alliances Director Cylee Gutting
We’re pleased to welcome Cylee Gutting to The Herald Group. Raised in rural Missouri and a political science graduate of Arizona State University, Cylee brings a grounded, high-energy approach to modern public affairs—shaped by campaign work, coalition management, and building winning issue-advocacy narratives that reach the right audiences at the right moments. With experience spanning candidates, trade associations, and public affairs firms, Cylee joins THG as a Strategic Alliances Director focused on strengthening partnerships, expanding client relationships, and ensuring messages break through with decision-makers and key stakeholders.
Tell us a little about yourself.
Born and raised in rural Missouri, I moved to Phoenix, Arizona, to study political science at Arizona State University, where I fell in love with the sun and desert heat. Since then, I have worked for candidates, trade associations, and public affairs firms, managing coalitions and building out winning narratives for issue advocacy campaigns, ensuring the right message is heard at the right time by the right person.
What led you to a career in public affairs and digital advocacy?
Growing up in a small town taught me the value of having a strong work ethic and how a community working together can achieve big goals. I realized that community service and public service can go hand-in-hand, so I began getting involved with political campaigns and ultimately ended up on a gubernatorial race which led to a career in public affairs. Helping others understand and navigate politics and government to achieve their goals is a passion of mine.
Which book has influenced your career the most?
A book that stands out has to be The Like Switch by former FBI special agent Jack Schafer. Understanding how to improve one’s likeability quotient using the golden rule of friendship and mastering nonverbal rapport signals are practical strategies that can be used in all personal and professional relationships and settings.
What’s one thing about public affairs that surprised you once you got into it?
The one thing about public affairs that surprised me the most was how accessible it can be for everyone. Anyone who engages persistently, thoughtfully, and correctly can have an impact through a phone call, a letter to the editor, or an email to the right decision-maker.
What are you most excited to take on in your new role as a director? How do you hope to make an impact?
I am most excited to meet and assist the clients of The Herald Group by building new partnerships and making existing partnerships even stronger, ensuring their message is heard by the right audiences and that they can achieve their public affairs goals.
Outside of work, where would we find you? What are you passionate about?
Outside of the office, I most enjoy traveling to new cities, attending any kind of fitness class, or catching up on reality TV with my cat (Fred). I’m passionate about staying active and working as many Harry Potter references into daily conversations as possible.
What’s a hobby or interest that has nothing to do with politics or public affairs — but you secretly think makes you better at your job?
My hobby or interest that has nothing to do with politics or public affairs but secretly makes me better at my job is my love of good coffee and great food. All conversations are more productive and engaging over properly pulled espresso pulled or a well-paired dish.
What’s your go-to brain break when the day gets hectic?
The best go-to brain break when the day gets hectic is to find the closest espresso martini to keep you going.
