Doug Gramiak, chief of staff for Gov. John Carney, is heading back to the private sector next month. The law firm Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP has announced the addition of Gramiak as senior government relations director in the firm's Wilmington office, effective Nov. 1, 2019.

"Doug is well respected in Delaware, and he will enhance our consulting services capabilities, including providing communications, government relations and strategic advice," said Thomas McGonigle, regional partner in charge of the firm's Wilmington office. "Having served in key strategic roles at the highest levels, coupled with his extensive communications experience, Doug brings a unique and dynamic perspective that will bolster our service offerings to the firm's clients."

The firm says Gramiak will be responsible for providing strategic advice and consulting services to clients on communications and public affairs.

"Delaware is an important market and adding someone of Doug's caliber and experience further strengthens our considerable Wilmington team," said Andrew C. Kassner, chairman and CEO of Drinker Biddle.

"I have valued Doug's advice since he first came to work for me when I was elected Lieutenant Governor back in 2001," said Carney. "In the years since, he has been a friend and one of my closest advisers. Doug has led our team over the past three years as we confronted difficult challenges around the state budget, public education, and our corrections system. On behalf of the people of Delaware, I want to thank Doug for his long and distinguished service to our state. He will remain a close friend and adviser."

Sheila Grant, who has served as the Governor's Deputy Chief of Staff since he took office, will replace Gramiak as chief of staff. Policy Director Albert Shields and Communications Director Jonathan Starkey will assume Deputy Chief of Staff roles focused on policy and external affairs.

Gramiak's long professional includes positions as a lobbyist, nonprofit director, and a political editor for a Delaware newspaper. He received a bachelor's degree in political science from Swarthmore College.