25 Years
Combined Experience
FinleyGroupllc
About Us
The Finley Group has reimagined the role of a modern lobbying firm, blending visionary strategy with hands-on expertise to drive real growth for our clients. Nationally recognized for our innovative approach and acclaimed for reshaping industry standards, we have secured our place among Washington, DC’s most respected advocacy leaders. Explore our website to see how our transparent offerings and clearly defined deliverables can position your organization for legislative and regulatory success.
In a landscape where government decisions can redefine industries and communities, a strong federal lobbying presence is essential. The Finley Group’s team ensures your interests are powerfully represented—delivering timely intelligence, strategic engagement, and proactive solutions that open doors to new opportunities, secure critical funding, and advance positive regulatory change. With us as your partner, you’ll be equipped to navigate complexity and turn policy challenges into pathways for growth.
Our Mission
Delivering strategic advocacy and consulting with integrity, The Finley Group champions our clients’ interests to achieve meaningful, measurable results.
Vision Statement
To be the trusted leader in lobbying and consulting, shaping policy outcomes and setting the standard for quality service and real impact.
Our Team
James Finley, Founding Partner
James Finley is the founding partner with over a decade of experience in public policy, lobbying, and operational strategy. He has represented clients before the White House, Congress, and federal agencies, successfully navigating complex legislative landscapes and fostering relationships with key decision-makers. Finley’s background spans multiple sectors, including healthcare, financial services, transportation, and public policy. He has crafted effective lobbying strategies, analyzed legislation, and provided strategic guidance to leaders in both government and business.
Ronrico “Rico” Smith, Consultant
Rico is a third generation Tampa native and steadfast leader in the community. He has effectively advocated for healthcare issues to federal, defense, and state officials on behalf of medical device companies.
Rico brings valuable board-level experience in both the government and healthcare sectors. Currently, he serves on the Corporate Board of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Tampa Bay and previously held the position of Board Treasurer for the Hillsborough County Hospital Authority. While serving on this board, he oversaw the approval of a $550 million capital improvement plan. Rico is a commissioned officer in the U.S. Air Force Reserves.
Alongside his board service and professional life, Rico volunteers his time with local veterans’ organizations and enjoys golfing and traveling with his family and friends.
Chris Chambers – Vice President of Strategic Partnerships
Chris Chambers brings over two decades of government experience with a concentration on law enforcement, security and emergency management operations.
Chris retired from the U.S. Coast Guard Chief after 21 years of honorable service, where he held positions as Program Manager for the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Emergency Management and Senior Enlisted Reserve Advisor. Experienced in analyzing geopolitical risk and fostering international partnerships, Chris has been successful at leveraging his extensive government experience on several political campaigns and community issues which resulted in successful outcomes.
Chris is passionate about community service, which is evide nt by his involvement and accomplishments. He is the 2019 recipient of the Tampa Bay Chamber’s Emerging Leader of the Year Award and a 2021 Tampa Bay Business Journal 40 under 40 Honoree.
Trey Stapleton – Vice President of Government Affairs
Trey Stapleton is a government affairs and strategic communications professional with more than a decade of experience influencing policy, navigating legislative and regulatory environments, and shaping public perception at the state and federal levels. He advises elected officials, business leaders, and organizations on advocacy strategy, executive positioning, and crisis management.
Trey has served in senior political and government roles, including Press Secretary for Senator Rick Scott’s first gubernatorial campaign, Communications Director for U.S. Congressman Bob Turner, and Public Affairs Director to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. In these roles, he helped advance key policy initiatives and launched statewide programs such as the Military and Veterans Assistance Program and the Fortify Florida school safety platform.
In addition to his public sector work, Trey partners with companies to align business objectives with policy strategy—identifying risks, securing opportunities, and building coalitions. He combines legislative insight with operational and technology-driven solutions to improve performance, ensure compliance, and position organizations for long-term success.
Who We Serve
Our representation spans a broad and dynamic policy portfolio, built on a deep understanding of the legislative process, political strategy, and effective advocacy. Over the years, The Finley Group has established trusted relationships on Capitol Hill and throughout the private sector, enabling us to identify legislative champions and create ladders of opportunity for our clients at every level of decision-making within both the federal and executive branches.
We proudly represent a diverse spectrum of clients—including corporations, trade associations, non-profit organizations, professional associations, unions, municipalities, and public entities—each with unique goals and challenges. The Finley Group is uniquely equipped to serve organizations of all sizes and sectors, providing tailored government relations strategies that drive results and foster growth in an ever-evolving policy landscape.
