ABOUT US

Strategic Public Affairs
Conflict is inevitable, and when it comes to your business, how a crisis is handled can make or break public perception of your company – and of you. Brett has the knowledge, experience and tools to enable you and your firm to control any public affairs or community relations situation you may face.

Brett, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a full-service agency specializing in media relations, public relations, governmental affairs, grassroots organization and event planning. When there is something important at stake, when you need to move fast or hit hard, or when you want to rally public opinion and support for an issue, Brett is here to help.

Our extensive list of contacts in government, community and media positions has helped us cement a solid foundation of proven excellence in all aspects of strategic public affairs. Our team knows how to coach you during high-profile public issues and will provide you with the confidence and preparedness to move forward with your situation.

Timothy A. Brett – President
Tim was first drawn to politics as a student at Newberry College, where Lee Atwater was his classmate. He went on to serve in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1982 until 1986. In addition, he acted as Congressional Staff Aide to U.S. Representative Carroll A. Campbell, Jr. Tim then became political director for Congressman Campbell’s successful campaign for Governor of South Carolina and subsequently was named senior executive assistant to Governor Campbell. These early political roles anchored his strong skill set in all aspects of public affairs and communications and set the stage for many political endeavors to follow.

In 1987 Tim left Columbia to become director of governmental affairs and community relations for Michelin North America in Greenville. For nearly seven years he was responsible for coordinating and managing Michelin’s public affairs. At Michelin he worked on international issues and events in addition to handling matters at the national and state levels. After leaving Michelin, Tim established Brett in 1993. He has twice chaired the Salvation Army Advisory Board, is a past president of the Mauldin Rotary Club, past member of the Executive Committee of the State Chamber, past board member of BIPEC, and received the Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest civilian honor, from Governor Campbell.

He and his wife Rita are active members of First Baptist Church of Mauldin, where Tim serves as a deacon. They have two grown children.
 
Elaine Barnhill – Director
Elaine has been with Brett inc since March 2004. Her role includes all elements of media planning and communications, public relations, fundraising, event planning, volunteer recruitment and management, as well as employee training and mentorship.

Elaine oversees the planning and execution of special events and community relations and media relations campaigns, as well as implementing grassroots and political strategies for clients. Formerly the Assistant Director of Development at St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Elaine holds a B.S. in Psychology from Wofford College and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina.

John Boyanoski – Director
A graduate of Syracuse University, John joined Brett Inc in March of 2010. He previously spent more than 10 years in journalism with The Greenville Journal, The Greenville News and The Spartanburg Herald-Journal. He is the author of three books.

Nick Brett – Office Manager
Nick is a 2004 graduate of Newberry College and an accomplished photographer and designer.