Chris Collier has spent nearly two decades at the center of California’s most consequential policy fights — from energy permitting to infrastructure approval to the campaigns that decide who governs Southern California. He founded Rincon Strategies in 2008 with a conviction that the intersection of business and politics demands both strategic depth and operational precision.
Today, Rincon operates as one of California’s first AI-augmented political strategy firms, combining principal-level counsel with advanced research and analytical tools to deliver results that larger firms promise but rarely execute at the local and regional level.
Chris serves on multiple boards and advisory bodies, including as Co-Chair of the BIA Ventura County Working Group, Chief Policy Advisor to the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce, Senior Policy Advisor to the Inland Empire Economic Partnership, and Board Member of WSPA Coastal Associates and the Santa Barbara County Taxpayer Advocacy Center. He holds a B.S. from the University of Southern California and an M.P.P.A. from California Lutheran University, and has been recognized with 40 Under 40 and Humanitarian of the Year honors.
Matt Guthrie is a public affairs strategist with deep expertise navigating California’s regulatory and stakeholder landscape. He leads client engagements at the intersection of policy and community, helping organizations build the relationships and reputations that shape outcomes.
Adam A. Ruiz is a legislative affairs specialist with established relationships across Southern California government and statewide legislative networks. He provides clients with direct access to the policymakers and processes that drive California’s regulatory and political agenda.
Bryan Palmaro brings deep experience in California political strategy and digital operations. He oversees campaign execution and digital programs across the firm’s political portfolio, translating strategy into measurable results across candidates, ballot measures, and issue campaigns.
Stacia Pittario serves as the firm’s client relations lead, managing day-to-day client engagement and ensuring quality and consistency across every account. She is the primary point of continuity for clients throughout the life of an engagement.
Kristine Collier brings a background in M&A, business operations, and marketing technology, including senior roles at Virgin Pulse and leading marketing technology firms in Santa Barbara. She provides the institutional-grade operational and technology infrastructure that underpins the firm’s AI-augmented capabilities.
Every Rincon engagement is principal-led. No pitch-team-to-associate handoff. If what you need is senior counsel — that's all we offer.
