Melissa serves as a Strategic Advisor for S360 in Montana.

She has a strong track record of accomplishments in public affairs and a deep knowledge of Montana politics, policy makers and issues. Most recently, Melissa was the director of government affairs for Cablevision and Charter Communications, overseeing legislation and policy in Montana, Colorado and Wyoming. In that role, Melissa developed strategic plans to advance legislative and regulatory policies, including fostering bipartisan relationships with policy makers and building coalitions with peer companies and organizations. She also negotiated and managed franchise agreements with 150 city and county governments, and oversaw charitable and political contribution plans.

Formerly, as a principal with Kountoupes Consulting in Washington, D.C., Melissa advised Fortune 500, high-tech, telecom, health care and energy companies such as Yahoo and Netflix. She crafted and implemented successful strategic plans to advance her clients’ goals with the Administration, Members of Congress and the public.

Melissa also worked for several senior members of Congress, providing counsel on telecommunications, education, labor, science, small business, veterans, and agriculture. In addition, Melissa worked for the Montana State Legislature and the Montana Office of Public Instruction.

A native of Fairfield, Montana, Melissa is a proud former Lady Eagle basketball player who enjoys time outdoors in Big Sky Country with her dog Ruby. You can find them hiking and biking trails around Helena, surfing and water skiing on Hauser Lake, floating the mighty Missouri, fly fishing the Blackfoot, or skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

Melissa is a graduate of the University of Montana in political science.