About Zaida Ricker

Zaida Ricker is a government relations specialist at Ridge Policy Group, a government relations firm with offices in Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania.

Under the leadership of Tom Ridge, former secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and governor of Pennsylvania, Ridge Policy Group designs advocacy strategies for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, corporate clients and other interest groups. With a team of experienced lobbyists and professionals of public affairs, the company advises on all types of complex government affairs and tailors strategies to help clients achieve their specific goals. Its clientele spans a large spectrum of industries, including agriculture, food and beverage; arts and culture; commerce and trade; economic development; education; energy, environment and natural resources; foreign affairs; healthcare; immigration, labor and employment; science and technology; taxes; gaming and transportation.

At Ridge Policy Group, Ricker is responsible for the firm’s client portfolio, advising clients on a broad array of issues relating to federal policies, especially on technology-based innovation and economic development matters. She assists communities in the utilization of the Opportunity Zone program and other federal funding opportunities. Ricker also manages the company’s marketing and social media initiatives.

Prior to joining Ridge, Ricker has developed deep understanding of the congressional procedure and the technique of relationship management with the government by working for several politicians, including Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL), former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), and former State Senator Jim Dabakis (D-SLC-UT).

Ricker holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree in legislative affairs from George Washington University.