Mike Kriner is a seasoned leader in government relations, with over three decades of professional experience. As the President and Owner of Next Generation Partners, Inc., Mike has built a reputable state and local government affairs lobbying firm that specializes in providing value-added services to businesses across Pennsylvania. His firm takes a hands-on approach to helping clients achieve both their business and operational goals, leveraging Mike’s deep expertise and strong relationships with key policymakers, regulatory agencies, and the Governor’s Office. Based in Central Pennsylvania, Next Generation Partners serves as a strategic partner for companies, providing boots-on-the-ground support throughout the Commonwealth.
Mike’s career began in public service, where he spent nearly ten years in the Pennsylvania Senate in various legislative roles. His extensive focus areas included budget management, consumer protection, economic development, energy, healthcare, taxation, transportation, and utility policy. During his tenure, Mike held the prestigious position of chief-of-staff to Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore, Senator Joe Scarnati. In this role, he built strong relationships with legislative leaders, committee chairs, and top decision-makers in both the public and private sectors. His ability to navigate complex legislative processes and advocate for policy changes has become one of his hallmark skills.
Transitioning to the private sector, Mike held key leadership positions at two major energy companies. At Allegheny Energy, Inc., he served as General Manager of State & Local Government Affairs for Pennsylvania, where he managed the company’s relationships with governmental entities and secured legislative and regulatory support for critical business objectives. Following this, Mike joined CONSOL Energy, Inc. as Director of Government Relations in Pennsylvania. In this role, he further honed his ability to build productive partnerships with government entities and community stakeholders, ensuring that the company’s interests were well-represented at all levels of government.
Throughout his career, Mike has developed a strong reputation as a trusted advisor and lobbyist, known for his strategic thinking, communication skills, and commitment to results. His areas of expertise include public policy, policy analysis, legislative relations, strategic communications, and crisis management. Mike is endorsed for his proficiency in these areas by numerous colleagues and industry leaders, with specific recognition for his work in public speaking, politics, and public relations. His skills also span across key tools and technologies, including Microsoft Office, SAP, and policy research tools, ensuring that he can meet the modern demands of government affairs and advocacy.
Mike’s leadership extends beyond his professional life. He is a passionate advocate for outdoor conservation and actively participates in various associations such as Safari Club International, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, and the National Rifle Association. These affiliations reflect his personal values and dedication to preserving natural resources and supporting responsible public policy in these areas.
A graduate of Moravian College, Mike holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Government. His academic background laid the foundation for a career committed to understanding the intricate workings of government and applying this knowledge to advance business objectives.
Today, as the leader of Next Generation Partners, Inc., Mike continues to use his extensive experience in government affairs to guide businesses through the complexities of state and local policy. His ability to bridge the gap between private industry and government has helped countless clients succeed in their legislative and regulatory efforts. With a clear vision for the future, Mike Kriner remains dedicated to helping organizations navigate the ever-changing landscape of public policy and government relations, while staying true to his core values of integrity, collaboration, and results-driven advocacy.
Mike resides in Palmyra, Pennsylvania with his wife Donna and their two sons, Dylan and Logan. His personal and professional life reflects a deep commitment to both family and public service, and he continues to seek ways to bring positive change to the business community and the broader society.
Character:
Mike Kriner is known for his integrity and strong moral compass, always striving to deliver honest, results-oriented solutions for his clients. He positions himself as a collaborative leader who prioritizes teamwork over simply agreeing, ensuring that decisions are made with careful consideration and a long-term focus.
Knowledge:
With over 33 years of experience, Mike has deep expertise in public policy, government relations, and strategic communications. His career in both the public and private sectors has equipped him with a vast understanding of legislative processes, regulatory frameworks, and the intricacies of building relationships with key stakeholders.
Strategic:
Mike excels in developing tailored strategies that align business objectives with governmental policy, leveraging his deep connections to create opportunities for success. His strategic approach is built on proactive planning, critical thinking, and anticipating challenges before they arise, ensuring his clients are always one step ahead in their initiatives.
Communication:
Mike is a strong communicator, adept at public speaking and policy advocacy, with endorsements from peers highlighting his ability to engage with both large and small audiences. His clear, persuasive communication style enables him to effectively advocate for his clients’ interests, whether in legislative hearings or direct negotiations with policymakers.
