John N. Jacobson

Director of Public Affairs

John N. Jacobson

Director of Public Affairs

John N. Jacobson

Director of Public Affairs

402 Graham Avenue
P.O. Box 187
Eau Claire, WI 54702-0187
Phone: 715.834.3425
Toll Free: 800.477.8050
Fax: 715.834.9240

Services

John believes state governments are the laboratories of democracy, a place where people may effectuate the greatest amount of change.

As such, public affairs professionals serve a vital role by informing lawmakers on an array of topics critical to business or industry.

In his role with Ruder Ware, John serves as a voice for the firm’s clients, advocating for their interests by engaging in meaningful and strategic communications. He also works with clients to monitor legislative topics and proposals of significance.

Prior to joining Ruder Ware, John held positions in both state and local government. Most recently, he served as the government relations director for a taxpayer association, where he represented the diverse interests of that group’s statewide membership in the state capitol.

He has experience in communicating on and advocating with respect to a wide range of issues, including:

  • Repeal of Wisconsin’s Personal Property Tax
  • Base budget reviews
  • Sales and use tax exemptions
  • Property tax due dates
  • Property tax relief for agricultural producers

At Ruder Ware, John advises clients on a broad range of strategic and communications matters, including:

  • Provide registered lobbying and advocacy services before the Wisconsin State Legislature and state agencies.
  • Serve as liaison to elected officials, regulators, and government stakeholders.
  • Facilitate relationships, strategic partnerships, and idea-sharing to advance client objectives.
  • Develop and execute public relations strategies and targeted messaging campaigns.
  • Lead crisis communication efforts and manage public reputation during high-stakes situations.
  • Guide strategic external relations and stakeholder engagement efforts.

John is an aviation enthusiast, enjoys traveling stateside, and goes out of his way to visit state capitol buildings wherever possible.  A Milwaukee native, he resided in Madison for a decade before relocating to Eau Claire in 2020. John is happily married, and, in his free time, can be found doting on one of his two rescued Labradors or enhancing his garden with native Wisconsin perennials.

John believes state governments are the laboratories of democracy, a place where people may effectuate the greatest amount of change.

As such, public affairs professionals serve a vital role by informing lawmakers on an array of topics critical to business or industry.

In his role with Ruder Ware, John serves as a voice for the firm’s clients, advocating for their interests by engaging in meaningful and strategic communications. He also works with clients to monitor legislative topics and proposals of significance.

Prior to joining Ruder Ware, John held positions in both state and local government. Most recently, he served as the government relations director for a taxpayer association, where he represented the diverse interests of that group’s statewide membership in the state capitol.

He has experience in communicating on and advocating with respect to a wide range of issues, including:

  • Repeal of Wisconsin’s Personal Property Tax
  • Base budget reviews
  • Sales and use tax exemptions
  • Property tax due dates
  • Property tax relief for agricultural producers

At Ruder Ware, John advises clients on a broad range of strategic and communications matters, including:

  • Provide registered lobbying and advocacy services before the Wisconsin State Legislature and state agencies.
  • Serve as liaison to elected officials, regulators, and government stakeholders.
  • Facilitate relationships, strategic partnerships, and idea-sharing to advance client objectives.
  • Develop and execute public relations strategies and targeted messaging campaigns.
  • Lead crisis communication efforts and manage public reputation during high-stakes situations.
  • Guide strategic external relations and stakeholder engagement efforts.

John is an aviation enthusiast, enjoys traveling stateside, and goes out of his way to visit state capitol buildings wherever possible.  A Milwaukee native, he resided in Madison for a decade before relocating to Eau Claire in 2020. John is happily married, and, in his free time, can be found doting on one of his two rescued Labradors or enhancing his garden with native Wisconsin perennials.

Civic Activities

  • Centergy – Board Member (2025 – present)
  • Chippewa Valley Museum – Board Member (2025 – present)
  • United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley – Board Member (2024 – present)
  • Adult Literacy Tutor

Professional Activities

  • Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists – Member
  • Public Affairs Council – Member
  • National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics – Member
  • Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce – Governmental Affairs Committee, Member (2023 – present)

 

Civic Activities

  • Centergy – Board Member (2025 – present)
  • Chippewa Valley Museum – Board Member (2025 – present)
  • United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley – Board Member (2024 – present)
  • Adult Literacy Tutor

Professional Activities

  • Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists – Member
  • Public Affairs Council – Member
  • National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics – Member
  • Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce – Governmental Affairs Committee, Member (2023 – present)

402 Graham Avenue
P.O. Box 187
Eau Claire, WI 54702-0187
Phone: 715.834.3425
Toll Free: 800.477.8050
Fax: 715.834.9240

Services

Education

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, B.A. Communications (2011)