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hda
David Gaines
Partner
David has over 30 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, and strategic communications. Prior to joining HDA, he was Chief External Affairs Officer at Ochsner Health, where he led government affairs, marketing, communications, philanthropy, and community outreach, elevating the organization’s national presence and achieving measurable growth in visibility and policy impact.
David’s expertise spans industries including healthcare, energy, and infrastructure, where he led the efforts to secure state and federal funding, advanced key legislation, and navigated complex regulatory landscapes. He specializes in crafting innovative strategies that address client challenges, anticipate industry trends, and drive measurable success. His ability to build coalitions and engage diverse stakeholders delivers tailored solutions for business and policy challenges.
David’s career includes leadership roles at MNS Ventures, EMC², and Boston Scientific, where he drove growth and innovation. A graduate of the University of New Orleans, he is an active community leader serving on multiple boards. David is also a devoted husband and proud father of three.