Fenton Communications
Fenton Communications is the largest public interest communications firm in the United States. Founded by David Fenton in 1982, the firm’s client list includes organizations associated with a diverse array of social issues.
Overview
Fenton Communications specializes in public relations for not-for-profit organizations.[1] Its clients work on social issues such as the environment, peace, health, women, GLBT and international issues.
When commenting on David Fenton and the work he and his firm does, the Washington Post noted that “[Fenton is] not the poster child of liberal causes; he’s the designer, producer and distributor of the posters.” [2]
The firm is made up of about 70 employees with locations in New York City, Washington, D.C. and San Francisco.
Staff
- David Fenton, Founder and CEO
- Lisa Witter, Chief Operating Officer
- Parker Blackman, Deputy General Manager and Managing Director of San Francisco Office
- Elizabeth Brooks, Chief Financial Officer
- Bill Hamilton, Executive Vice President
- Ira Arlook, Managing Director, DC Office
Controversy
In April 2008 Mother Jones Magazine reported that Fenton’s offices were the target of corporate spying between the years of 1998 and 2001 [3]. During this time a corporate security firm, Beckett Brown International, made up of former police officers and secret service agents "sat surveillance" outside of David Fenton’s home. BPI reportedly sorted through the garbage at both Fenton’s home and the firm’s offices. More investigation found that BPI collected data on Fenton Communication’s client lists, billing information and personnel information.