Meet The Team
Vision
Pinchback Group, LLC is a premier consulting firm dedicated to bridging government and industry for strategic success. President and CEO, Don Cravins, Jr., brings together a wealth of experience and expertise to drive impactful and sustainable outcomes for our clients.
Our Team.
The Honorable Donald “Don” R. Cravins, Jr. founded the Pinchback Group, LLC in 2019 and serves as the President and CEO. Throughout his career, Don has served in key executive positions in the federal and state government and in some of America’s largest non-profit and for-profit corporations. He served as the first Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development where he led the Minority Business Development Agency in its service of the nation’s 9.7 million minority business enterprises. He was appointed by President Joe Biden on May 6, 2022, and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate on August 4, 2022.
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Don holds a BA in Political Science from LSU and a JD from the Southern University Law Center. In 2004, he was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives and in 2006 elected to the Louisiana State Senate. While in the Legislature and following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Don served as a voice and champion for business owners, assisting with navigating the challenges related to recovery and rebuilding.
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In January 2009, Don left the legislature to serve as Staff Director and Chief Counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, where he played a vital role in the successful passage of the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010. In January 2013, he became the Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu of Louisiana. At that time, he was the only African American Chief of Staff in the U.S. Senate.
In addition to his civilian career, Don is a U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel in the DC National Guard JAG Corps. His awards and decorations include three Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal.
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He is also a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a Life Member of The Rocks, Inc., and a member of the 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County. His honors include induction into the Southern University Law School Hall of Fame, recognition as a Distinguished Alumnus of Louisiana State University, and in 2020 he was named Advocate of the Year by the National Bar Association.
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Don and his wife, Yvette Puckett Cravins, Esq., have three children and reside in Maryland.
Our Expertise
Government Engagement
Strategic Planning
We specialize in bipartisan, multi-level government engagement strategies, helping organizations and businesses navigate complex political and regulatory environments and maximize opportunities. Our strategic planning services are tailored to align with your business objectives and drive sustainable growth.
Policy Analysis
Industry Advocacy
Our expertise in policy analysis provides valuable insights for informed decision-making. Our best in class advocacy techniques provide promote your interests and priorities, ensuring your voice is heard and your objectives are met.
Program Management
Crisis Management and Risk Mitigation
Our crisis management services are designed to help organizations and businesses prepare for, navigate, and recover from unforeseen events that could disrupt operations or damage their reputation. These services aim to minimize the negative impact of crises and restore normalcy as efficiently as possible. Our program management solutions streamline operations and mitigate risks, allowing you to focus on strategic initiatives. We assess and address potential risks to safeguard your business and optimize performance.
Strategic Planning
Performance Optimization
Our experience allows us to help organizations define their long-term goals, identify growth opportunities, and develop strategic plans to achieve those objectives. This can include market analysis, competitive positioning, and business model development.
Our Approach
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Collaborative Partnerships
Our collaborative partnerships leverage the strengths of both government and industry, fostering innovation and driving strategic success.
2
Tailored Strategies
We develop tailored strategies that integrate seamlessly with your business, delivering sustainable growth and competitive advantage.
3
Client-Centric Focus
Our client-centric focus ensures that your objectives are at the forefront of our solutions, leading to tangible and enduring outcomes.
4
Innovative Solutions
We devise innovative solutions that address complex challenges, enhancing operational efficiency and maximizing your potential.
Our Partners
