SAFECO Taps Former NASA Official to Lead Government Relations

SAFECO named Ed Heffernan, an executive with extensive federal government experience, as vice president of Government Relations.

In his new position, Heffernan, 38, manages SAFECO’s nationwide legislative agenda and its relationships with key government agencies, including departments of insurance throughout the country.

“Ed has a proven track record of working with governments to generate positive results for the public,” said Mike McGavick, SAFECO chief executive officer. “He’ll work closely with legislators and government officials to help SAFECO develop insurance products that meet the changing needs of customers and distribution partners.” Heffernan served at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration from 1994 to 2001, holding key positions including chief of staff for NASA Administrator Dan Goldin; associate administrator for legislative affairs; and liaison to the White House. In these roles, he specialized in working with federal, state and local agencies and securing Congressional support for key NASA programs, including the International Space Station.

Between 1993 and 1994, Heffernan was a consultant, providing research and analysis on federal legislative issues including health care, education and tax policy.

In 1992, Heffernan ran for Maryland’s 8th District Congressional seat, defeating seven other candidates and winning the Democratic primary election.

From 1987 to 1992, he served as legislative assistant to Dick Durbin, at the time a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois and currently assistant Democratic floor leader in the U.S. Senate.

Topics Aerospace