Recommendations
Public Policy / Communications Consultant - SBCC, LLC
Digital / Content Marketing Strategist, Bringing Families Together (and Website Creation / consultant)
Public Policy / Communications Consultant for Grow Missouri, Inc.
Health Care Decision-Maker (HCDM) Legislation Coalition
Director, Public Policy - VOYCE/Long Term Health Care
"Sheri was an integral part of our management consulting team at Grow Missouri, Inc., as a public policy and communications consultant and board member on various projects, including exploring a long-term lease option before the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)'s airport investment partnership program on behalf of the City of St. Louis. Sheri joined a team of nearly 60 professionals on this large-scale, complex transaction, which involved researching, advancing, responding and reacting to important civic infrastructure needs through a public private partnership effort. The Grow Missouri coalition formally recruited more than one dozen professional global infrastructure responses through this process.
Sheri’s unique skill set involving economic development, civic affairs, public and government affairs, crisis management, coalition building and community engagement make her an invaluable team member. Her ability to manage public opinion responses and public sector accountability, along with creative problem solving, tedious execution and follow through in a high pressure and high stakes transaction environment places her on the cutting edge of her profession. I could rely on Sheri for strategic communications insights related to our website and social media, along with her ability to communicate related public policy issues and strategy with our coalition, including public officials and community leaders.
Sheri also previously worked for me at Pelopidas as a lobbyist on the ground in Jefferson City lobbying our Missouri legislative agenda for our firm’s many clients, along with special projects and statewide ballot issue and team management roles. Through her career in public and government affairs, Sheri has established herself as a leader and dynamic team member among some of the best and brightest in the public policy and advocacy business. She creates and manages self-starting projects with high impact and is dedicated to her team and to the cause. Moreover, Sheri is respected as a voice to be trusted. She is high character, honest, diplomatic, insightful and capable of solving critical issues independently and as a dedicated contributor to a team effort. Having managed and worked with Sheri in several capacities over the last decade, I highly recommend her for any of your consulting needs." 4/6/2021
Travis H. Brown, State & Federal Lobbyist and Entrepreneur
Note: Travis Brown is reference & supervisor for work at Grow, Missouri, Inc. (client) & Pelopidas.
“Sheri and I worked closely together on communications for one of the largest public policy projects in the St Louis region over a three-year period. She delivered strong communications strategies across different social media platforms efficiently and always with a great attitude. Sheri can also be counted on to think beyond the assignment and suggested valuable ideas which we implemented. Sheri was an integral part of our team and I highly recommend her.” 10/5/2020
David Boesch, Creative Director at First Rule Film and Broadcast - worked with Sheri in the same group (First Rule is an associated entity with Grow Missouri, Inc.; SBCC, LLC, Grow MO, Inc.)
“I had many opportunities to work with Sheri throughout my years of public service. She was always straightforward and honest, as she presented her cause. I know her to be an extremely focused, diligent, hard working and goal oriented person.” 10/4/2020
Tom Dempsey, Founder and CEO First Capitol Advisors, former Missouri Senate President Pro Tem; former lobbyist at First Rule/Pelopidas - worked with Sheri in different groups (SBCC, LLC, Grow Missouri, Inc., Pelopidas, VOYCE and the HBA)
“It was a great experience working with Sheri. She was extremely skilled at building non partisan coalitions. She also provided strategic insight and advocacy skills on transformative public policy issues and was very quick to respond to client needs.” 10/4/2020
Ed Rhode, Principal, Rhode Communications - worked with Sheri but at different companies (SBCC, LLC, Grow Missouri, Inc. and Pelopidas)
“Sheri is awesome! I recommend her to anyone who needs help in Missouri! 11/9/2021
Mark Ellinger, Principal, Ellinger & Associates - worked with Sheri (Grow Missouri, Inc., SBCC, LLC and Pelopidas)
“Sheri has been such an instrumental part of our team at Bringing Families Together. As a smaller agency, finding a match to help grow our presence on social media and coordinate our materials and outreach effort has been quite the challenge. Sheri has transformed our forward-facing materials into a professional, cohesive presence. Sheri single-handedly keeps our agency focused on a persuasive platform. Sheri’s passion, combined with her skill set, creativity, and organizational abilities, are remarkable! Sheri is an enthusiastic team player who ensures we recognize staff accomplishments on social media and internally! Sheri has exceptional communication skills and her timely responses to inquiries is superb. BFT would not be where we are without Sheri’s skills.” (re: Digital / Content Marketing Strategist position at BFT)
“Sheri has worked as a consultant to research and produce a contemporary and modern website. Sheri coordinated the entire project, pulling together diverse professionals and keeping the project on target! The result has really amazed our team and the roll out has been flawless across multiple platforms. She is passionate, open, honest, has a diverse knowledge base and natural talents. Sheri independently ensured that our project progressed as planned. I highly recommend her for any of your consulting needs." (re: Communications Consultant creating BFT’s website) 7/31/2024
Kim Brown, Co-Owner / Resource Director, Bringing Families Together - Sheri’s supervisor and also consulting contact (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
Employee of the Month Nomination - “Your connection with each of us through what you are doing for our website is so awesome! Not only do you support and encourage us all, but you promote foster care and adoption like nobody's business! We are so BLESSED to have you and THANK YOU for all you are and do!”
Angie, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC) 1/31/2024
“What an awesome page and such a beautiful team!” (re: narrated video overview of teams page on new website) 1/12/2024
JeanAnn, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“Sheri is doing a great job with our website and social media!” 1/10/2024
Chad, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“This is so lovely. I have been through many re-branding and website refreshes, and I’m blown away by this website and the materials you put out on social media. Thank you for sharing this preview, and I’m so excited for the public to see it! I’m so impressed by Sheri’s creativity and storytelling!” 11/1/2023
Courtnie, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
”Sheri has been with us two years and her impact reaches each of our programs! Thanks Sheri!” 1/20/2024 … “Even though she is part-time, her impact is mighty and felt in each program area. Her work is directly impacting our community awareness!! Keep up the great work!” - when announcing Sheri as Employee of the Month 8/2022 … “This was amazing and fast! - the whole Admin team LOVED it! They really loved it!" 6/16/2022 … “LOVE it and REALLY appreciate you being so super quick and thorough! You are awesome!” 9/29/2022
Kim, Co-Owner, Bringing Families Together - Sheri’s supervisor and also consulting contact (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“Thank you for leading an informative, interesting and pertinent training today on situational awareness. You rocked it!” 8/30/2022
Randi, Co-Owner, Bringing Families Together - Indirectly manages Sheri (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“In case no one has told you recently, you’re the best!” … “Thank you for an excellent training yesterday! You were so informative and I’m going to be playing closer attention to my surroundings!” 9/8/2022
Sarah, Foster Care, Bringing Families Together - Sheri’s co-worker (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
”You are unbelievably amazing at what you do. Not only are you proficient, efficient, dedicated, focused and talented, but your passion for this gig SHINES through you! You are a true blessing to our BFT family, and I hope you are here for the long haul. You just shine at what you do.” - in her Employee of the Month nomination of Sheri; Sheri was voted EOTM by the BFT team July 2022 7/9/2022 … “I so appreciate your brilliance in tirelessly putting together our new website. Very excited to see how it turns out. Thanks for making it so much to submit information and your ability to edit and re-write content as necessary! So very thankful to have you as our tech savvy promotional support spread the word woman!” 10/25/202 … “That is so COOL! Very, very exciting!! If you have not yet seen Sheri’s sneak peek video overview of our new website that she narrated, check it out!” 11/1/2023
Angie, Parent Aide / Education, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“We had a great turnout at our information session last night, and I feel this was due to how much you've been promoting them on social media! Thank you for all your help and always working hard to ensure the word gets spread via social media!” 4/2022 … “I love all the work you do with our social media! You do an amazing job putting our events and activities out there for the community to see and do a wonderful job spreading the word about BFT!” 1/27/2023
Carol, Foster Care, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“I love what you do with our social media!” 3/24/2022
Kelly, Case Management, Bringing Families Together - works with Sheri as co-worker and consultant (Bringing Families Together and SBCC, LLC)
“Sheri is a long-time respected friend and a TRUE PROFESSIONAL! 11/9/2021
Matt Belcher, C.O.O, Enhanced Building Systems, LLC & Principal, Verdek Solutions - works with Sheri as a consultant (SBCC, LLC); see his prior recommendation further below on their work together at the Home Builders Association of Greater St. Louis
“It is difficult to write a brief recommendation for Sheri as there are so many great things I have to say about her. During my time working with Sheri she was an outstanding teacher, supporter and advocate for older adults at the state and local level. Her tireless work and strong relationships in the Missouri legislature, and with partners in our industry, brought about the introduction of significant legislation that would help clarify healthcare decision maker laws in that state of Missouri. Sheri was highly knowledgeable, exceedingly dedicated and had a unique empathy that allowed her to connect with any person she met. While Sheri had great skill at event coordination and keeping strict plans, she also had a keen ability to create flexible and innovative solutions when plans changed at the last moment. Throughout my work with Sheri she demonstrated a phenomenal ability to form powerful creative messaging that was concise, meaningful and perfectly crafted.
If you are looking for a proven leader with an unparalleled work ethic, extensive experience and expansive professional network, Sheri is the person you are looking for. I would recommend her for any position and would not think twice about working for or alongside her in the future.” 8/16/2016
Christine Flynn, MSW, Nursing Home Advocate/Public Speaker/Author - worked directly with Sheri at VOYCE and SBCC, LLC
“I have worked with Sheri Bilderback for the past three years on proposed legislation and she has been invaluable. Her recommendations regarding language to be used in the proposed bill that communicates the consensus of our working group and that is accommodating and reflective of compromises made with diverse groups has been superb. Sheri has impeccable insight into and the ability to clarify positions of diverse groups to enable them to reach consensus. I have seen her ability to negotiate and work with legislators to gain support for proposed legislation and with patience, clarity and solid interpersonal communication skills bring together disparate groups.” 8/16/2016
Debra K. Schuster, Debra K. Schuster & Associates, Elder & Disability Law - worked directly with Sheri at different companies (SBCC, LLC, HCDM coalition, VOYCE)
“I have worked closely with Sheri on legislation, both on the opposite side (Home Builder's "right to repair act") and as allies [during the last two to three years] (heath care consent act). Sheri has enormous positive energy and fully commits herself to whatever cause she works on. She is very skilled at negotiating and developing consensus. Sheri's integrity is complete and she is always professional. I recommend Sheri without hesitation.” 8/14/2016
Catherine Barrie, Legal Counsel at Missouri Labor and Industrial Relations Commission - worked directly with Sheri at different companies (SBCC, LLC, HCDM coalition, VOYCE and HBA)
"I have been working with Sheri on an important piece of legislation in Missouri for over two years. I have been impressed with Sheri's ability to communicate, connect, and find common ground among people with very different objectives in order to achieve her organization's goals. Sheri is a very positive person who acts with honesty and integrity, which results in trusted relationships and effective advocacy.” 8/15/2016
Kathy Butler, Officer at Greensfelder, Hemker & Gale, P.C. - worked directly with Sheri (SBCC, LLC, HCDM coalition, VOYCE)
“In my experience, Sheri showed herself to be a talented governmental affairs professional who served her clients well. She demonstrated professionalism and paid attention to important details.” 8/15/2016
C.K. “Chip” Casteel, Seasoned business, government and civic executive, advocate, communicator, attorney - worked with Sheri at SBCC, LLC
"Sheri is bright, creative and has uncanny intuition which helps her get to the heart of an issue. She is wonderful at seeing things from a unique perspective—which is outstanding when others on a team are stuck staring at an obstacle—Sheri can help steer around it. Sheri is warm, a good communicator, and great at getting meaningful work done.” 9/18/2015
Jill Farmer, Master Certified Life Coach, Jill Farmer Coaching - managed Sheri indirectly at the Martha Beck Institute’s Life Coach Training Program
"Sheri is a consummate public policy professional - tireless, dedicated, creative. A joy to work with.” 9/21/2015
Janet Gillow, Professional Development Manager at Washington University in St. Louis - indirectly managed (VOYCE Board/Committees)
"Sheri is a wise and gentle soul with massive gifts to help her coaching clients tap into their own inner wisdom. She leads sessions with calm confidence and asks just the right questions at the right time. Sheri is a coach that brings many different and useful tools to offer her clients an experience that will leave them transformed.” 11/28/2015
Marieke Bosch Larosse, Certified Martha Beck Life Coach - was Sheri’s client and previously a fellow student in the Martha Beck Institute’s Life Coach Training Program
"Sheri is a dependable and organized colleague. Her attention to detail and to scheduling makes for a more efficient work team. She has made great strides in establishing VOYCE as a leader in legislative advocacy for long-term care in the St. Louis region. She is able to motivate staff and volunteers to support VOYCE's advocacy efforts and she excels at illuminating policy to individuals who are outside of the public policy profession in such a way that builds momentum around her policy goals.” 10/12/2015
Kayla Steinke, Social Worker Empowering and Providing Services to Older Adults - worked with Sheri
Director of Operations – John Brunner for U.S. Senate
"Sheri was detail-oriented, extremely organized, and the glue of our operations for the campaign. She effectively managed the schedule, ensuring times, locations, and dates all worked in an efficient manner. Furthermore, Sheri held her colleagues accountable for their workloads and worked with others to ensure the schedule (and all parts of it) were complete in time. Plus, Sheri is a pleasure to share an office with and positively contributes to the office environment. Sheri would be a great asset to any organization or team." 9/3/2012
John Sutter, Political Research Associate, The Strategy Group for Research - worked indirectly for Sheri at John Brunner for U.S. Senate
"Sheri is a true pro who gets things done, she's a doer. Under pressure, tight deadlines, high stakes, she's a go to person that I relied on to ensure success. Thanks again Sheri for all your help." 8/31/2012
Rob Engstrom, Sr. V.P., Political Affairs & Federation Relations and National Political Director, U.S. Chamber of Commerce - worked directly with Sheri at John Brunner for U.S. Senate
“Sheri was extremely enjoyable to work with. Her passion for her work is very evident. Arguably, Sheri had the most difficult, and at often times, most stressful, position on the campaign overseeing the candidate's time and the daily functions of the organization. She handled the tasks effortlessly and with tremendous poise. Sheri possesses a great amount of tenacity to ensure things are not only done on time, but with 100% accuracy and thoroughness. She would be an asset to any organization." 8/29/2012
Katie McGurk, Campaign Finance - worked with Sheri at John Brunner for U.S. Senate
"Sheri is extremely professional and I thoroughly enjoyed working with her during the McCain-Palin campaign in 2008." 8/29/2012
Whitney Savage, Customer Relations Specialist, Boeing - worked directly with Sheri at John Brunner for U.S. Senate and McCain08 when she was a member of the Advance Team
Director, Government & Public Affairs – Pelopidas, LLC
"Sheri is one hard working organized lady! Always cheerful and on her game." 4/12/2012
Andy Arnold, Partner, Arnold & Associates - worked directly with Sheri at Pelopidas
“Sheri is a wonderful person to work with. She always has a good spirit and strong conviction toward her job. She is a hard worker and always is committed to seeing a job through to the end. Sheri also pays attention to details to make sure the job is not only complete, but it’s also done right.” 11/7/2011
Ward Cook, Lobbyist, Cozad Company, LLC - worked directly with Sheri at Pelopidas
“Sheri joined our group and immediately hit the ground running. In the political world, it is a difficult task to find people who understand the timeframe and the importance of "getting the boots on the ground and getting the job done" in a very constrained time period. Sheri proved herself quickly to be one of those rare individuals. She and the team she worked with on the ground produced results that could be directly tracked in the outcome of a higher than average level of support for the measure we were advocating for.” 11/1/2011
Keith Kirk, Consultant, Pelopidas, LLC - managed Sheri indirectly at Pelopidas
“Sheri is smart, enthusiastic, high energy and a joy to work with. She has an incredible work ethic and is dedicated to getting the job done for her clients. Sheri is a team player and can be relied upon to keep a sharp eye on the many details that are critical to advancing state policy change. While I have only worked with Sheri for one year, I look forward to teaming up with her for years to come.” 11/1/2011
Laura Slay, Executive Director, Children's Education Alliance of Missouri - worked with Sheri at Pelopidas
Manager of Public & Government Relations – Prairie State Generating Company (PSGC)
“I have been impressed over the last couple of years with Sheri's capacity to distill complex issues into a condensed list of salient points that cuts through the noise that confuses a lot of public policy debate. She clearly is loyal to her employer, and is a consummate professional both in communications and in developing effective government relations at multiple levels. She is enthusiastic in dealing with issues and willingly engages on problem issues. And on top of all that, she is a joy to work with.” 8/10/2010
Floyd Gilzow, Director of Member Relations & Public Affairs, Missouri Public Utility Alliance (one of the eight public power owners of the Prairie State Energy Campus facilities managed by PSGC) - was/is with this company when working with Sheri at PSGC
“This recommendation is easy. Sheri knows how public affairs works. She understands the importance of details, message, medium, audience and good writing. It's easy to have confidence in her abilities because she keeps getting the job done. It's never that simple but Sheri makes it seem that way. I enjoy working with her and hope to be doing so for a long time.” 8/10/2010
Tom Wolf, Executive Director, Energy Council, Illinois Chamber of Commerce - was/is with this company when working with Sheri at PSGC
“Sheri is a high energy, strategic thinker. She has an extremely broad and deep knowledge base that she uses to manage legislative and government affairs. I have worked with her on a wide range of issues that impact power plants and developed a high level of trust in both her analyses and work product.” 8/10/2010
Mark Shepherd, Corporate Director of Environmental Health and Safety, PSGC - worked directly on a team with Sheri at PSGC
“Sheri is a consummate public and governmental affairs professional. She is a strong and effective representative of her company, as well as a pleasure to work with as a partner.” 8/10/2010
Chip Casteel, SVP - Public Policy, St. Louis RCGA - was/is with this company when working with Sheri at PSGC and HBA
“Sheri is always pleasant and cheerful when we have to work together. She also is great at getting back to me in a timely manner and with complete information on any issue we are working on!” 8/16/2010
Mark Ourada, VP for External Affairs, ACCCE - was with ACCCE when working with Sheri at PSGC
“Sheri has the positive personality and can do work ethic to bring together teams and consistently accomplish win-wins. Her knowledge and relationships make her a great PR/GR professional as well as a trusted friend.” 9/22/2015
Robert Conn, Asset Manager, Southern Illinois Power Cooperative - indirectly managed Sheri at PSGC as member of PSGC Management Committee (aka board)
Field Director - McCain 08 Campaign of Missouri
“Sheri worked for me on the John McCain Campaign in Missouri last cycle. Sheri was very detail oriented and focused. During the campaign we could throw a number of assignments her way without any fear of her being overwhelmed, and with the confidence that all the projects would be completed on time and correctly. She brought a positive attitude to our team which kept everyone upbeat and productive. Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, High Integrity” 4/20/2009
Dave Hageman, Executive Director-Missouri at Victory Enterprises – was State Director of McCain08 Campaign of MO (top MO position in campaign) when he hired Sheri; Sheri reported directly to him
“Sheri has fantastic energy and is extraordinarily professional and organized. She is eager to dive in and tackle any job, big or small, and works well in a team environment. I was very impressed with her ability to take care of problems with little direction and she was creative in her approach to getting
things done. In a fast paced and ever changing environment such as a campaign office, I could always count on Sheri to manage large events or tasks to completion. I highly recommend Sheri to anyone who is seeking an amazing addition to their government affairs team.” 8/11/2010
Melanie Bassett Abrajano, Political Director-Missouri, John McCain 2008 - managed Sheri at McCain08 Campaign of Missouri
“As an Advance Representative for Senator McCain and Governor Palin, and formerly with President George H.W. Bush, I have had the opportunity to work with a large number of political staff around the country. Sheri was without question one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Sheri has the ability to handle a large number of tasks simultaneously without ever dropping the smallest detail. During the four trips I did to Missouri in the last election cycle, I knew that I could count on Sheri getting the job done without question. She has a can-do attitude and was a great team player. Simply the best!” 4/20/2009
Blake Williams, Advance Representative, McCain08 Campaign (with the national campaign effort) - managed Sheri indirectly at McCain08 Campaign of Missouri
“I had the privilege of working with Sheri during the 2008 presidential election cycle. I worked with Sheri in an extremely fast-paced, complex, and crazy environment. Sheri always kept a cool head and acted in a professional manner, no matter the situation. Sheri was a rock to all of us who worked with her, providing guidance and stability during a very tense and ever-changing environment. It is my privilege to recommend Sheri. I have never worked with a better person.” 4/16/2009
Corey Brown, Field Director, Team Emerson - worked directly with Sheri at McCain08 Campaign of MO
Senior Staff Vice President for Government Affairs – Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri (HBA)
“Sheri worked with public policy specialists from across the country to develop messaging, techniques, innovations, and communications methodologies that would reach the general public and elected officials in what is an extremely contentious political environment. Not only did she share her innovations, but encouraged a core group to meet regularly to share approaches and brainstorm solutions. Among some of the most creative public relations and government affairs staff from across the country - she was a leader and facilitator of creativity.” 4/17/2009
Harry Savio, Executive VP, HBA Greater Austin - was in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is a detail oriented Government and Public Affairs master. Her ability to analyze and make decisions regarding key legislative issues is exemplary. In addition, her understanding of the process both on the legislative and communicative sides give her the ability to create specific, firm policy and legislative language that is applicable to local, State and Federal Codes, Laws and Standards. During my term as President of The Home Builders Association and Chairman of its Green Building and Codes Committees for many years, Sheri's efforts and management skills of her subordinates helped our association make a tremendous positive impact for our industry, helping our membership avoid unnecessary, costly mandates and creating alternatives that became acceptable to all sides and economically expedient. Her ability to communicate in a professional manner with everyone from trades people to the general public to the Governor's office allows her to "get the job done!" 4/17/2009
Matt Belcher, President, Belcher Homes/Belcher Consulting Group; Past President HBA of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri; Chairman and Founding Member HBA Green Building Council; Past Chairman HBA Codes Committee (seven terms) – worked directly with/indirectly managed Sheri at HBA
“I worked with Sheri on a regulatory proceeding before the Missouri Public Service Commission. Her working demeanor was both pleasant and professional. She identified and communicated specific, clear, and attainable objectives for the litigation. More generally, Sheri demonstrated good judgment and expertise in regulatory affairs. She understood the opportunities and limits of litigation in helping her Association achieve its broader public policy goals.” 4/16/2009
Robert Hess, Associate, Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP - was in this position when working with Sheri
“I strongly recommend Sheri for a position in Public/Government Affairs. I have worked with Sheri in her role as a Governmental Affairs VP for the St. Louis HBA for 16 years - ten of which I was a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, two years as a County Commissioner and the remainder as an HBA member. Sheri is very good at understanding complex issues and working with elected officials to pass public policy to address the particular problem.” 4/16/2009
Bill Luetkenhaus, Owner, Luetkenhaus Properties; Missouri House of Representatives (10 years); County Commissioner (two years) - was in these positions when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri takes ownership of issues, provides leadership to respond and involves strategic partners to build coalitions for successful resolution.” 4/6/2009
Dennis Lavallee, President, St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers - was in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is a savvy and well-connected player in development circles in the St. Louis region and the state of Missouri. In her role with the HBA, her style was both direct and diplomatic, which is a tough balance to strike. Her skills and background would be extremely useful to any organization with a public policy component.” 4/6/2009
Greg Prestemon, President, EDC of St. Charles County - was in this position when working with Sheri
“I've known Sheri for many years as a professional colleague and friend; she is bright, energetic, organized and dedicated to her work. She organized and served as the chair of an ad-hoc group of state and local lobbyists within the Home Builders organization nationally, and thanks to her efforts, our group became a resource for government relations professionals all around the country. She would be an asset to any organization; she has been a resource and help for me over the years, and I can wholeheartedly recommend her. Please feel free to contact me for any additional information that might be needed.” 4/17/2009
Jon Chandler, CEO, Oregon Home Builders Association – was in this position and prior public/ government affairs position when working with Sheri
“Sheri was very detailed oriented and provided important information on issues before the Council and Legislature. She was timely in responses to inquiries and accurate in the information provided. Sheri's communication skills were very good and she was readily accepted as a source to be trusted.” 4/19/2009
Carl Bearden, County Councilman/State Representative, County Council/State Legislature – was in these positions with these companies when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is a highly regarded, public policy and communications professional.” 4/3/2009
Leann Chilton, Director, Government Relations, BJC HealthCare - was in this position and previously with another company in a similar position when working with Sheri at HBA, VOYCE and SBCC, LLC
“In working with Sheri on legislative issues where both our organizations shared a common viewpoint, I have found her to be capable of coalition building and a great team player. She is thorough and diligent. In a member based organization your main objective is working for your members, and she served them well.” 4/3/2009
Denise Hasty, VP, Government Affairs/Public Relations, AGC of St. Louis - was in this position and previously with the Regional Commerce & Growth Assoc. (RCGA) when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is one the most task oriented people I know. She has great attention to detail, works well with a variety of people and is an effective communicator. I've had a chance to work with Sheri on a number of issues over the years and she always does a great job.” 4/19/2009
Ron Watermon, Director of Government Affairs and Special Projects, St. Louis Cardinals - was in this position and previously in government/legislative affairs with St. Louis County when working with Sheri at HBA
”I would like to recommend Sheri Bilderback for any public and government affairs positions. I have known Sheri for approximately 15 years and have worked with her on issues of mutual concern as both a member of the Public Policy Council in my position as Corporate Vice President of Public Affairs for SSM Healthcare since 1997, and prior to that when I was Senior Vice President for the RCGA. I give Sheri my highest recommendation.
Sheri is well respected by her colleagues at the RCGA and on the Public Policy Council, by corporate executives and government staff, and by local, state and federal officials. She has the ability to put others at ease and to bring together those with differing perspectives to successfully advance public policy objectives. From my position at SSM and formerly with the RCGA, I know that it takes a dynamic individual with a background in many areas - civic, political, advocacy, policy and more - to be successful in positions like ours. Sheri is a consummate professional and provides the complete government / public affairs package.
Sheri is a creative problem solver and a strategic thinker and would fit well with any corporate or association government / public affairs program. She would bring a well-rounded approach and would prove a strong performer in any such position. You would obtain a great asset for your organization in Sheri.“ 6/5/2008
Steve Hoven, Corporate Vice President, Public Affairs, SSM Health Care - was in this position and previously with the RCGA in a similar position when working with Sheri at HBA
“With Sheri's great amount of experience in the public affairs arena and her understanding of the local and state legislative issues, she would be a great asset for a Missouri company or organization.” 4/3/2009
Steve Hoven, Corporate Vice President, Public Affairs, SSM Health Care - was in this position and previously with the RCGA in a similar position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is the type of colleague that you would want next to you in the fox hole when battling an issue or campaign. Sheri was always reliable when it came to bringing ideas, recommendations and solutions to the discussion, be it on the issue de jour or candidate campaigns.” 5/26/2010
Wayne Bertsch, Director of Political Affairs, Florida Home Builders Association – worked directly with Sheri at HBA
“When I first started working in the Home Building industry, I had a chance to attend NAHB’s Government Affairs Conference. It was at this conference that I first met Sheri. With me being very new to the business, Sheri went out of her way to introduce me to a number of other individuals in my field and was very helpful with any questions that I had. Sheri is a true professional. She is personable, bright and quick on her feet. She is a true assist to any company or organization she works for.” 4/17/2009
Tayt Brooks, Government Affairs Director, Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Northern VT - was in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri and I worked together for five years at the Home Builders Association of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri. She would be a great addition to any organization that is searching for an experienced government affairs practitioner.” 4/16/2009
Caitlyn Peel, Senior Assistant Staff Vice President for Government and Environment Affairs, Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri - reported to Sheri at HBA
“I had the pleasure of working with Sheri for 10 years through my position at the National Association of Home Builders. Handling public and government relations for the building industry requires the ability to quickly grasp a myriad of technical building and development issues, while also being able to effectively communicate positions and negotiating points on those issues to officials, builders, trade partners and the public. All of this while working with divergent and vocal opinions on all sides of the issues from both inside and outside the organization. Sheri was able to quickly gain an understanding of complex issues such as building codes and green building requirements and successfully promoted her association's positions and agenda. She was a valuable asset to have supporting NAHB on its efforts at the national level.” 4/22/2009
John Ritterpusch, Director of Energy & Green Building, NAHB - in this position working with Sheri
“As Government Affairs professional staff, Sheri and I were colleagues often sharing our experience and expertise. Sheri utilizes her strengths to research and analyze and understand the issues, bringing together a strategic partnership that is dedicated to not only identifying potential solutions but also to implementing them.” 4/17/2009
Jane DeAustin, Director Government Affairs, CMBA - in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“It has always been a pleasure working with Sheri. She would be an asset to any company that is fortunate enough to hire her. Sheri is clearly an example of what others strive to emulate. I wish Sheri the best of luck in her future endeavors.” 4/17/2009
Connie Wilhelm, President, HBA Central Arizona – in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“I am happy to endorse Sheri. I worked with Sheri on the RCGA Public Policy Council. She has strong interpersonal skills, a subtle political mind and a quick grasp of the issues.” 4/21/2009
Mark Johnston, State Affairs Manager, National Association of Mutual Insurers – in a similar position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Organized, efficient and very pleasant to work with. Very good at articulating the key issues we needed to discuss. She always kept the meeting moving forward in a very productive way.” 5/29/2009
Rod Jetton, Speaker, Missouri House of Representatives – was in this position when working with Sheri
“Sheri and I worked together for well over a year. She always completed her tasks on time, they were always well done, and her ideas and suggestions were generally spot on! Moreover, she brings enthusiasm and a great work ethic to all she does.” 4/17/2009
Elliot Eisenberg, Senior Economist, NAHB – was in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“While Sheri was with the Home Builder's Association, we worked together on multiple occasions as she led responses on behalf of the development community to proposed changes in municipal zoning ordinance legislations. Sheri recruited expert professionals to participate, organized massive review and comment efforts for quick response, and coordinated communications with local staff and elected officials in an effective manner. I have also worked with Sheri in her role as Planning and Zoning Commissioner in her hometown of Brentwood, Missouri both while working for both petitioners and the City. Sheri has been professional and thorough in her critique and deliberation of proposed development plans and municipal policy, while always thoughtful and courteous. Sheri is a true professional, passionate for and highly competent in her government public affairs work.” 4/30/2009
Lee Cannon, Senior Traffic Engineer, Crawford, Bunte, Brammeier – was in this position when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri is a rare combination of professionalism and enthusiasm for her work. She is extremely knowledgeable in the intricate workings of local, state, and national government. She would be a great asset to any company or organization utilizing her experience and people skills." 5/4/2009
Dave Dunlap, Principal at Consolidated Design & Construction Group, Inc. – was in this position and on the HBA Board of Directors when working with Sheri at HBA
“Sheri was a collaborative, enthusiastic team member who got things done! Detail-oriented, she was able to juggle many tasks from managing committees to organizing fundraising events with a positive attitude and professionalism throughout. She was great to work with!” 8/10/2010
Julie Sutter, Assistant Director of Regulatory Affairs, Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Easten Missouri - worked directly with Sheri at HBA
“This recommendation is to support Sheri in her search for a position of leadership and responsibility in government affairs or in an executive management position. As the head of the Gpvernment Affairs Department for the Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri (HBA), I hired Sheri as Legislative Representative in April 1990. Sheri excelled in the position, and she was promoted to Assistant Director for Political and Regulatory Affairs in September 1990. In 1996, I became the Executive Vice President (equivalent to the position of CEO) at the HBA, and Sheri was promoted to manage the Government Affairs Department as Staff Vice President for Government Affairs. Further recognizing her strong contributions critical to the success of the HBA, Sheri was promoted to Senior Staff Vice President for Government Affairs in May 2001.
Sheri joined the HBA with no prior experience with the residential home building industry and was able to quickly develop expertise in legislation, regulation and policy related to the housing industry. She is always willing to take on new projects and responsibilities. Sheri has a great sense of urgency related to task completion, the ability to interpret and communicate complex issues and a strong ability to strategize issue management to obtain the best results for the members of our association.
Sheri has excellent written and oral communications skills. She is also highly adept at building successful relationships with officials and other community leaders who may be opposed to the HBA’s policy objectives. She has an ability to set a professional tone of mutual respect to obtain a positive dialogue and cooperative approach by all parties involved. Sheri has the respect of her peers, HBA members and public officials. She identifies and handles issues before they have reached critical mass due to her ability to focus and discern key nuances on issues important to the HBA’s members and to community leaders.
The position is demanding and requires a varied work schedule, long hours and traveling to meetings. She is always willing to put in extra time and do what is required to guide an issue to completion. She professionally handles the management of the department, including staff, hiring, budget oversight and management of the HBA’s legal efforts and professional consultants on government affairs issues. Sheri has a great deal of experience with political action committees, fundraising, event planning, coalition building and elections, and has developed strong contacts at all levels of government - local, state and federal - and with other interest groups and stakeholders.
Sheri manages the HBA’s state legislative program and oversees the efforts of our association’s contract lobbyist team and is very well respected by members of the State Legislature and their staffs. She manages and tracks hundreds of bills every session, writes letters, testimony, meets with legislators and all other activities necessary in an extremely active and complex legislative program. The HBA monitors a wide array of topics in the State Legislature given the breadth of issues that touch the home building industry. This gives Sheri a unique and diverse background from which she can draw to benefit the mission of any organization that would have her on their team.
Sheri operates independently to make the final decisions related to policy interpretations and recommendations and for overall government affairs issue management. Sheri understands complex policy and legislative issues and can identify potential opportunities for improvement in current processes and policies. She will be able to join any organization and make an immediate impact.
Sheri’s departure is a great loss for the HBA and for me personally. I believe in supporting excellence, which Sheri embodies. I offer her my highest recommendation. Sheri would be a great asset to any organization.” 3/24/2008
Patrick S. Sullivan, Executive Vice President, Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri - was in this position while Sheri was at the HBA
Public Finance/Investment Banking Analyst - Dain Bosworth, Inc.
“I worked with Sheri at Dain Bosworth. We were part of the Missouri public finance team that worked with local school districts and other governmental entities to develop financing structures and strategies. Her position as Investment Banking Analyst was very demanding, often requiring long hours and the ability to understand complex issues relating to tax-exempt financings. We worked in an environment where teamwork was essential to the process and Sheri was an excellent team player. She was always willing to take on new responsibilities and learn new skills. I strongly recommend Sheri for this position.” 4/17/2009
James Towne, Vice President, Dain Bosworth - worked directly with Sheri at Dain Bosworth, Inc.
While a Student at University of Missouri - Saint Louis (UMSL)
“Sheri is very disciplined in everything she pursues. When Sheri and I earned our MBA together, she was always infinitely prepared for all study sessions, presentations, and of course, tests. She embraced the topics in her business classes enthusiastically and thoughtfully, which resulted in great grades!” 4/5/2009
Maria Shuleski, MIS Manager, Anheuser-Busch – studied and served on class teams with Sheri at UMSL while in this position (currently is with Centene; 10/1/2020)
Note: Positions of the recommenders listed above are largely the ones they had at the time of their recommendation. Also see skills recommendations on LinkedIn, and of course my formal references. My LinkedIn page also has letters of recommendation from my supervisor at the HBA and from my time as a student at The American University. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheribilderback